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Sleep apnea can cause poor quality sleep at night and potentially lead to long-term health issues. Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with sleep apnea can help with prevention and diagnosis for those affected by it. In this blog post, we'll discuss the top risk factors and offer tips on how to reduce the risk of developing sleep apnea. 

Risk Factors

Age

Individuals who are middle-aged and older have a higher risk of developing sleep apnea, but sleep apnea can affect individuals of any age, including children.  

Sex 

Men are more likely to develop sleep apnea than women.  

Weight

Obesity and sleep apnea have a strong correlation, so individuals who are overweight have a higher risk of developing sleep apnea.  

Family History

Having a family history of sleep apnea increases your risk.  

Your Anatomy

A thicker neck and narrow airway may increase your risk of developing sleep apnea because it can make it difficult to breathe.  

Drinking and Tobacco Use  

Smoking increases inflammation in the airway. Drinking alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat which could lead to obstructions throughout the night. Both can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea.

 

What You Can Do  

Maintain a Healthy Weight  

Losing weight can reduce the risk of developing sleep apnea, and it may lessen symptoms for those already affected. 

Quit Smoking  

Quitting smoking can reduce inflammation in the airway and lower the risk of developing sleep apnea. 

Limit Alcohol Consumption  

Avoiding alcohol before bed can help prevent muscle relaxation in the throat, which can lead to obstructions. 

Live a Healthy Lifestyle 

Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can also reduce the risk of developing sleep apnea. 

Although it may not be possible to completely prevent the development of sleep apnea due to the anatomy of your body and genetics, taking these precautions can help reduce the risk and lessen symptoms. If you do suffer from sleep apnea, there are treatment options available. At CarePro Home Medical and Kelly’s Home Medical, we provide reliable CPAP machines, CPAP masks, and CPAP accessories. To browse our online catalog, visit our website.