39 million adults have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is more common among men, but women can also suffer from the breathing disorder. The risk of OSA can increase during pregnancy. Researchers estimate that sleep apnea can occur in 26% of all pregnancies. Although loud snoring is often thought to be the only complication of OSA, it can have potentially life-threatening complications for both the mother and unborn child. Here’s what you need to know to keep you and your little one safe and healthy.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of the condition. An obstruction is created in the upper airway from the tissues in the back of the mouth collapsing or the tongue falling backward while sleeping from the muscles relaxing. This can result in potentially hundreds of breathing disruptions throughout the night. Each event can last for a minute or more.
Every time you stop breathing, your body is depleted of oxygen, which also deprives your baby. With no treatment, this can lead to a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, and many other serious complications. Your brain will also jolt you awake to resume normal breathing, interrupting your sleep cycle. This can affect your mental health and cognitive abilities if sleep deprivation occurs. You can even have a higher risk of fatal auto accidents from drowsy driving.
Pregnancy and Sleep Apnea
The risk of sleep apnea increases during pregnancy for several reasons, including hormonal changes. Higher levels of estrogen can cause more mucus in the membranes, leading to nasal congestion that can narrow your airway.
Pregnancy also places pressure on your diaphragm from the increasing size of your uterus. This can decrease your lung functions from reduced air capacity, which can cause your airways to collapse.
Pregnancy also causes weight gain, creating extra tissue around your neck. This can make it harder to breathe. Expectant mothers with gestational diabetes have a higher risk of OSA. Untreated sleep apnea can cause several conditions that can be harmful to both mother and baby, like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
Managing Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Sleep apnea may go away after delivering your child. In the meantime, speak with your physician to determine if you require treatment. An oral appliance is a non-invasive solution to keep your airway open.
Avoid sleeping on your back to keep pressure off your airway. Sleeping with a pregnancy pillow behind your back can help prevent you from rolling over.
If you’re experiencing loud snoring or other symptoms of sleep apnea, speak with your doctor about your concerns. They can provide the diagnosis and treatment you need to breathe better.
About Dr. Cher Rich
Dr. Rich achieved her dental degree from the University of Texas at Houston Dental School. She has continued her training in various specialties, including sleep apnea treatment. Dr. Rich can provide the personalized solutions you need to manage OSA with an oral appliance. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (281) 377-3125.