Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep. It can be caused by a blockage of the airway, such as a collapsed airway, or by a lack of oxygen. People with sleep apnea may have difficulty breathing or even stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep.
The most common symptom of sleep apnea is snoring. Snoring is a sign that the airway is being obstructed and that the person is struggling to breathe. Other symptoms of sleep apnea can include:
Excessive daytime sleepiness: People with sleep apnea often feel very tired during the day, even after getting a full night's sleep. They may have difficulty concentrating and be more prone to accidents.
Gasping or choking episodes: People with sleep apnea may experience episodes of gasping or choking during sleep, which can be very disturbing for their bed partner.
Headaches: People with sleep apnea may experience headaches in the morning, as their bodies are struggling to get enough oxygen.
Dry mouth or sore throat: People with sleep apnea may wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat from struggling to breathe.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend treatment options.