Researchers in St. Michael's Hospital Sleep Laboratory in Toronto attribute this to a decrease in hormone levels. According to Dr. David Dancey, of St. Michael's, obesity and neck circumference are not the only cause of this increase in apnea. "We think the difference many be due to lower levels of estrogen and progesterone caused by menopause," he stated.
It must be remembered, also, that some younger women may be faced with menopause as well. For instance, a woman who has had breast cancer and undergone chemotherapy will often find herself in menopause.
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes lapses in breathing during sleep. This can occur many times an hour and last as long as sixty seconds or more. The lapses in breathing decrease the amount of oxygen in the blood and increase carbon dioxide. This causes severe stress to every part of the body, and, added to the stress created by the sudden start and gasp for air, can lead to hypertension, stroke and heart attack.
Several symptoms suggest the possible presence of sleep apnea. First and foremost is loud snoring. Bed partners or room mates may even notice the lapses in breathing and the sudden gasp for air. Another indication is excessive daytime sleepiness.
If you suspect that you, or anyone you know, may be a victim of sleep apnea, check with a doctor and request admittance to a Sleep Laboratory for a Sleep Study. Treatment is available in the form of CPAP or sometimes surgery. Sleep apnea is a dangerous illness that is not going to get better on its own. Get the help you need.
