What happents to your body when you stop breathing during sleep?

When you stop breathing during sleep, your body experiences a condition called sleep apnea. This happens when the airway becomes blocked or the brain doesn’t send signals to the muscles that control breathing. As a result, your body gets less oxygen, which can make you wake up briefly to start breathing again. This can happen many times during the night, leading to poor sleep quality and feeling tired during the day.

Effects on the Body:

1. Low Oxygen Levels: The lack of breathing reduces oxygen in the blood, which can affect the heart and brain.
2. Interrupted Sleep: Frequent waking interrupts the sleep cycle, making it hard to get restful sleep.
3. Daytime Sleepiness: Because sleep is disrupted, you might feel very tired during the day.

Brain and Heart:

• The brain may be affected because it doesn’t get enough oxygen. This can lead to problems with thinking and mood.
• The heart has to work harder, which can increase the risk of heart problems over time.

Understanding these effects can help in recognizing the importance of addressing sleep apnea and seeking appropriate care.