If you end up waking from sleep finding that you haven't been able to breathe for a short period of time, you are most likely affected by sleep apnea. This condition occurs when you can't take in air while sleeping because your throat stays open or your throat temporarily collapses making you become breathless.
Sleeping on Your Back
Most times sleep apnea happens while sleeping on your back although it can happen in any position. Apnea is usually caused when the tongue or throat muscles relax beyond the usual range and by sleeping on your back, the fact that the muscles have relaxed so much lets the tongue slip up towards the back on your mouth and you are unable to breathe.
Therefore sleeping on your back is the main cause and it may be as simple to remedy the problem by changing the position you sleep in to get that great nights sleep. If you still have your tonsils and adenoids and they become enlarged it may also contribute to the problem. This can easily be helped by your doctor and may involve surgery.
If you are overweight and have too much body fat you may also be at risk for sleep apnea. Fat deposits can accumulate at the back of the throat and cause it to collapse or a blockage while you are sleeping.
For mild cases you can use a mouthpiece that will control your tongue and keep you breathing consistently for a better nights sleep.
Even the size of your skull or neck can be a cause of sleep apnea. The shape may force muscles to close over the throat when you lie down and ruin what would otherwise be a good sleep.
The best approach to treat this problem or for extreme cases is by using the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure treatment.
Sleep Apnea CauseWondering what is sleep apnea? Learn more about the condition and some of the most effective treatments and remedies on the Apnea Guide website at Apneaguide.com