Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing interruptions during sleep. These pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur multiple times throughout the night. Sleep apnea affects millions of people, with many cases left undiagnosed. However, sleep deprivation is not the only concern, as untreated sleep apnea can lead to other health issues. Since many conditions can be genetic, you may be wondering if the same goes for sleep apnea. Continue reading to learn if this sleep condition can be hereditary.
What Genetic Factors Contribute to Sleep Apnea?
There are several kinds of sleep apnea with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) being the most popular. This chronic condition can be influenced by a variety of health and lifestyle choices, including:
- Body fat – Body weight and fat distribution, influenced by genes, can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. Obesity, which has a strong genetic component, can raise the likelihood of experiencing OSA by as much as tenfold.
- Facial anatomy – The shape of your face, including skull width, nose length and width, and facial depth, is influenced by your genes. These factors affect the width of your airway and can determine how easily it becomes blocked.
- Circadian rhythm – Your sleep patterns and quality are greatly influenced by your genes. This includes your innate sleep schedule and how well you rest during the night.
- Breathing control – Experts believe that genetics may have a role in the muscles and neural signals involved in breathing, although there is still limited research on the connection between genes and breathing control.
How Can I Lower My Risk of Sleep Apnea?
Despite genetic factors that can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea, there are numerous steps you can take to lower the likelihood of developing this condition, such as:
Maintain a healthy body weight – This can be done by eating a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients, avoiding unhealthy foods, and getting lots of exercise.
Make healthy lifestyle choices – Opt for healthy lifestyle habits that encourage proper breathing while sleeping, such as avoiding excessive alcohol consumption before bedtime and refraining from smoking or using tobacco products.
Be mindful of sleep disruptions – Be mindful of factors such as the amount of light in the room, higher temperatures, pet dander, seasonal allergies, and other similar issues that could be disrupting your sleep.
Wear oral appliances – In case of dental misalignment, using oral appliances can help in realigning your jaw, thus improving the airflow. Additionally, you can try sleeping on your back instead of your side to facilitate smoother breathing.
A Full Breath Center dentist will be able to help you determine if sleep apnea treatment is right for you. Please make an appointment with Dr. P. J. Nagjee by calling (310) 435-7939.
