Snoring might seem harmless, but it can sometimes point to something more serious. If you or a loved one snores loudly, wakes up gasping for air, or feels constantly tired despite a full night’s sleep, it might be a sign of sleep apnea.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that interrupts your breathing repeatedly while you sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to more than a minute, and they can happen dozens of times per hour. When this happens, your body briefly wakes up to resume breathing, though you might not remember it.

The most common form of this disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much and block the airway. Over time, these interruptions can lead to poor sleep quality and increased risk for health problems.

Sleep Apnea WFMC

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

You might not realize you have sleep apnea unless someone else notices your sleep habits. However, there are signs that can alert you. Take note of:

  • Loud or persistent snoring
  • Waking up choking, gasping, or with a dry mouth
  • Feeling exhausted during the day, even after a full night’s sleep
  • Trouble concentrating or remembering things
  • Morning headaches
  • Mood changes, including irritability or depression
  • High blood pressure or heart problems

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s worth talking to your provider.

When to Bring It Up with Your Doctor

In addition to the above symptoms, it can be good idea to make an appointment with your doctor if:

  • A partner or family member says you stop breathing at night (or wake up gasping)
  • You’re always tired during the day despite getting enough sleep
  • Snoring is loud and happens most nights
  • You have health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes that aren’t well controlled
  • You’ve noticed more sleep issues due to recent weight gain

Sleep apnea can get worse over time if left untreated, but it’s manageable with the right care.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

Your provider will likely start by asking detailed questions about your sleep habits, daily energy levels, and medical history. They might also recommend a sleep study, which can be done at home or in a sleep lab. This test monitors your breathing, oxygen levels, and how often you wake up during the night.

Depending on the results, your treatment might include:

  • CPAP therapy (continuous positive airway pressure), which uses a gentle stream of air to keep your airway open at night
  • Lifestyle changes, like avoiding alcohol or caffeine before bed, sleeping on your side, or losing weight
  • Oral appliances, which are meant to open your airway as you sleep
  • Surgery in rare cases, if other treatments don’t work

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Make an Appointment

Sleep apnea doesn’t just make you feel tired. It can increase your risk for serious health problems, including high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, and even type 2 diabetes. It can also impact your mood, memory, and relationships.

By addressing sleep apnea early, you can improve your energy, concentration, and long-term health. Many people find that treatment helps them sleep better and feel more like themselves again.

Don’t wait until your minor symptoms become severe. If you suspect something’s off with your sleep, your primary care provider can help you take the next step toward better rest and better health.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.