Do You Know the Common Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

The first signs of obstructive sleep apnea are often not recognized by the patient, who commonly has no sleep complaints. Instead, it’s the concerned bed partner who usually urges the patient to see a doctor about snoring and better sleep health.

The most common signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea:

• Snoring. The person may alternate between snoring very loudly and being very quiet. Periods of silence may be followed by gasps or snorting sounds. Pauses in breathing are also common.Excessive sleepiness. Falling asleep at inappropriate times; Waking up tired, even after a full night’s sleep; Worrying about your sleep health.
  
• Morning headaches
  
• Increased neck size
  
• Trouble concentrating or forgetfulness
  
• Frequent nighttime awakenings and urination
  
• Irritability or other mood changes
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Restlessness at night
  
• Night sweats
• Sexual dysfunction
  

People with central sleep apnea often experience insomnia or frequent awakenings. Along with these symptoms of poor sleep health, they also may experience a gasping or choking sensation as they awaken.

Because sleep apnea symptoms can lead to daytime sleepiness or impairment, high blood pressure, stroke, irregular heartbeats, heart attacks, diabetes and depression, it’s important to consult a sleep specialist to determine if you have obstructive sleep apnea and determine the right course of treatment.

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If you are concerned about your sleep health, visit our appointments page to setup a meeting with one of our board-certified sleep specialists.