Sleep Apnea

Signs of Sleep Apnea: What to Look For

Sleep apnea symptoms often go unnoticed by the person experiencing them—it’s usually a bed partner who first raises concern. However, if you frequently wake up feeling exhausted, irritable, or with a dry mouth and sore throat, it may be time to take a closer look.

Common warning signs include:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking while asleep
• Irregular breathing patterns (pauses, shallow breaths, or sudden speed changes)
• Frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom
• Difficulty concentrating
• Excessive daytime fatigue
• Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
• Waking up with headaches

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, seeking a sleep evaluation can help determine if sleep apnea is the cause—and more importantly, guide you toward effective treatment for better rest and overall health.

When Snoring Is More Than Just Snoring: Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when abnormal breathing disrupts oxygen flow during sleep, putting strain on major organs—especially the heart. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications.

• The type of sleep apnea you have determines the underlying cause:
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – Caused by a blocked or narrowed airway.
• Central Sleep Apnea – Stems from the brain failing to send proper breathing signals.
• Mixed Sleep Apnea – A combination of both structural airway issues and neurological triggers.

Several factors can contribute to sleep apnea, including:

• Neck size and fat deposits that restrict airflow
• Tongue size and positioning, which may block the airway
• Hormonal changes that affect airway shape
• Genetics and family history
• Aging, which can reduce muscle tone in the throat
• Lifestyle habits such as alcohol use, smoking, and sedative medications
• Enlarged tonsils or adenoids, especially in children
• Medical conditions like heart or kidney failure, stroke, thyroid disorders, and endocrine issues
• High-altitude exposure, which can affect breathing regulation
• Brain stem injuries or infections that impact respiratory control

If you or a loved one experience frequent snoring along with other symptoms, understanding the potential causes is the first step toward finding the right treatment and improving your overall health.

Why Sleep Apnea Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring—it’s a serious medical condition that requires attention. Left untreated, it can lead to major health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and persistent daytime fatigue that affects mental well-being.

And it’s not just the person with sleep apnea who suffers. Partners often experience stress, sleep disruptions, and exhaustion, leading to irritability, daytime fatigue, and relationship strain.

For those living with sleep apnea, the potential risks include:

• Cardiovascular issues – Heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and arrhythmia
• High blood pressure – Increased risk of hypertension
• Type 2 diabetes – Sleep disruptions can affect blood sugar regulation
• Liver dysfunction – Abnormal liver function linked to untreated sleep apnea
• Mental health challenges – Increased anxiety, depression, and mood disorders
• Lack of focus – Raising the risk of workplace and driving accidents
• Metabolic syndrome – A cluster of health risks including obesity and insulin resistance
• Strained relationships – Sleep deprivation can impact intimacy and emotional connection

If you or your partner show signs of sleep apnea, seeking evaluation and treatment can improve both your sleep and your long-term health.

Managing Sleep Apnea: What to Expect

If you suspect sleep apnea, a home sleep test or an overnight study in a sleep clinic can confirm the diagnosis and help determine the right treatment. While terms like CPAP, BiPAP, and oral appliances might seem overwhelming at first, the good news is that following a treatment plan can reverse many of the negative health effects—including Afib and hypertension—while also improving focus, mood, and overall well-being. Plus, it can be life-changing for the partner who shares your bed.

Common Sleep Apnea Treatments

• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) – The gold standard for sleep apnea treatment, CPAP therapy delivers continuous pressurized air through a mask to keep your airway open throughout the night.

BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) – A variation of CPAP that adjusts pressure between inhaling and exhaling, making breathing more comfortable.

APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure) – A smart device that monitors and adjusts air pressure based on your breathing patterns.

Oral Appliances – Custom mouthpieces designed to reposition the jaw or tongue, preventing airway obstruction.

Surgery – While typically a last resort, surgical options can remove excess tissue, reposition the jaw, or adjust tongue placement to improve airflow.

Lifestyle Changes – Simple habits can make a big difference:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed
• Sleep on your side or stomach instead of your back
• Quit smoking, which can inflame airways
• Stay active with regular exercise

Finding the right solution can drastically improve sleep quality, energy levels, and long-term health. If sleep apnea is affecting your life, seeking treatment can help you wake up feeling truly rested.