5. Apnea
Apnea describes a sleeping disorder where the body halts breathing for an extended period. This period can be up to a few minutes long. Apnea occurs during sleep when the body exhales and fails to inhale for a few minutes. The lungs will suddenly gasp for air, resulting in a snoring sound.
Apnea typically occurs in overweight individuals as a disorder known as OSA (obstructive sleep apnea.) However, individuals suffering from Bordetella pertussis infection may experience OSA as well. Exact causes for the condition remain unknown. However, experts think that it’s a reflex to prevent coughing fits.
OSA is common in infants suffering from whooping cough infection. Infant sleep apnea presents a danger to their health. The condition escalates in intensity during REM sleep. Infants that stop breathing for extended periods develop hypoxemia. This condition prevents optimal oxygenation of the blood resulting in brain damage. Infants may also develop bradycardia; a slow heartbeat, and require resuscitation.