Recent studies show that obstructive sleep apnea can actually claim the
lives of afflicted individuals and that a lot of people are actually at risk for obstructive sleep apnea. This is why it is important to read about the basic facts about obstructive sleep apnea in order to find out why acquiring a first aid certification is beneficial. Here are some of these facts.
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is defined as a type of sleep apnea that is caused by an obstruction or blockage in the upper respiratory tract which serves as a passageway for air. This blockage prevents proper circulation and distribution of oxygen in the blood which would make the afflicted individual wake up mid-sleep and gasp for air. These periods of shortness or absence or breath can last for ten seconds or more and can occur for more than 30 times within an hour.
How can it become deadly?
Even though the shortness of breath that are experienced by people who have obstructive sleep apnea only lasts for a few seconds, it can be deadly for individuals who area already finding it hard to breathe due to their medical conditions or their age.
According to a study conducted by experts at the Johns Hopkins University, men between the ages of 40 and 70 are at more risk for death than men who do not have obstructive sleep apnea. In a separate study that published at the journal of the American College of Cardiology, it was revealed that patients who are suffering from both sleep apnea and heart problems are more likely to suffer from death due to cardiac arrest. They were able to prove the direct correlation between sleep apnea and death due to cardiac arrest by taking note of the severity of the blockage of the deceased subjects.
How common is obstructive sleep apnea and who are at risk?
Acquiring a first aid certification allows individuals to manage obstructive sleep apnea by ensuring that proper medical interventions are implemented when patients or afflicted individuals experience shortness or absence of breath.According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, one out of four Canadian adults most likely has obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals who have family members or relatives that are suffering from this medical condition is most likely to develop it as well due to their genes. Men are also at greater risk for obstructive sleep apnea than women. Smokers are also at greater risk due to their damaged and weakened airway passages.