Sleep Apnea Signs & Symptoms
Knowing the common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea can help you know if you are at risk of the condition. The value of identifying sleep apnea as soon as possible cannot be overstated. Sleep apnea can cause life-altering medical conditions if untreated. Treating the condition promptly can help you regain your health and be the best version of yourself. We think your dreams are within reach, and being aware of the common signs and symptoms is critical for identifying sleep apnea.
Complete Health Sleep of SoCal offers at-home testing and diagnostic services for patients in the Poway/Rancho Bernardo, CA areas.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can develop through various signs that the individual or their sleep partner may observe. Recognizing these signs is crucial for timely intervention. Here are common signs of sleep apnea:
Here are 5 of the most common signs of sleep apnea:
➜ Loud and Persistent Snoring
Regular, loud snoring is a hallmark of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It often involves interruptions in breathing, followed by gasps or snorts. This is one of the most common sleep apnea symptoms, but it doesn’t always mean the individual has the condition. It is also possible to have sleep apnea without having observable snoring.
➜ Pauses in Breathing
Witnessed episodes where breathing stops during sleep. If a sleep partner notices these pauses, it’s a likely sign of sleep apnea.
➜ Choking or Gasping
Sudden, loud gasps or choking sounds during sleep can indicate the body’s attempt to resume normal breathing after an interruption.
➜ Restless Sleep
Constant tossing and turning during the night may signify disruptions in sleep caused by apneas.
➜ Frequent Nighttime Urination
The need to urinate frequently during the night, known as nocturia, can be linked to sleep apnea.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Some signs are easily observable. Other symptoms can be a bit more challenging to correlate with sleep apnea but can also be key symptoms. Signs and symptoms are interchangeable.
If you have one or more of these symptoms, it is a smart idea to be evaluated by a sleep professional.
Early detection and intervention can reduce future health risks and allow you to regain your sleep and your health.
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness:
Feeling persistently tired and fatigued during waking hours, regardless of the amount of time spent in bed.
Difficulty Concentrating:
Impaired cognitive function, including difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and reduced ability to focus.
Morning Headaches:
Waking up with headaches, particularly in the morning, due to oxygen deprivation during sleep apnea episodes.
Irritability and Mood Changes:
Increased irritability, mood swings, and emotional instability can result from disrupted sleep patterns.
Dry Mouth or Sore Throat:
Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat, often associated with mouth breathing, a common occurrence in sleep apnea.
Restless Legs:
Uncomfortable sensations or an urge to move the legs during sleep which can be exacerbated by sleep apnea.
Depression and Anxiety:
Sleep apnea has been linked to mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.
Decreased Libido:
Reduced interest in or desire for sexual activity, which may be associated with sleep disturbances.
Erectile Dysfunction:
Reduced ability to perform in the bedroom.
Get Tested for Sleep Apnea Today
Learning about signs and symptoms of sleep apnea can help you understand if you may have sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.
If any of these symptoms or challenges sound like you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our sleep professionals. Our team focuses on treating sleep apnea and can administer an at-home test after an initial medical evaluation.
Contact us today to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find sleep apnea testing in San Diego?
If you are a resident of San Diego or the Poway/Rancho Bernardo areas and are expierencing sleep apnea signs or symptoms, there is no time too soon to get tested for sleep apnea. Complete Health Sleep of SoCal offers at-home testing, and our team puts together accurate diagnoses and sleep apnea treatment plans. Our teams specialize in oral device therapy, which is an effective treatment option for sleep apnea. If you would like to schedule a consultation to learn more about next steps, contact us today.
