“Is sleep apnea genetic?”
My husband has sleep apnea and my son shows signs of it. Is sleep apnea genetic?
4 Answers
A specific gene has not been identified. However, OSA does tend to run in families. Think about it, we tend to have the same anatomic features throughout generations.
Yes, it can be. A recessed chin or overbite is a common genetic cause of sleep apnea. Of course, obesity and large tonsils can be genetic and cause sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea definitely has a genetic tendency. Two important factors are body build - anatomy of the throat, and obesity. OSA usually gets worse with weight gain, and weight has both genetic behavioral and environmental influences. Some people can be thin and have OSA, but as weight increases, especially size of the neck, the apnea usually becomes more severe. Weight control is the best defense!
Sincerely,
Margaret E. Mike, M. D., FAASM
Sincerely,
Margaret E. Mike, M. D., FAASM
There can be a genetic component. Your son should be screened if he has symptoms
