Signs and Symptoms of OSA

Loud and chronic snoring. Pauses may occur in the snoring, and choking or gasping may follow the pauses.

 

The snoring is usually loudest when you sleep on your back. It may be less noisy when you turn on your side. Snoring may not happen every night. Over time, the snoring may happen more often and get louder.

 

You're asleep when the snoring or gasping occurs. You will likely not know that you're having problems breathing or be able to judge how severe the problem is. Your bed partner or family members will often notice these problems before you do.

 

Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea; however, it is considered a strong indication you may suffer from this all-too-common sleep disorder.

 

Daytime Sleepiness. Another common sign of sleep apnea is fighting sleepiness during the day, at work, or while driving. You may find yourself rapidly falling asleep during the quiet moments of the day when you're not active.

 

Morning Headaches, memory and learning problems and the inability to concentrate can also be signs that your sleep is being interrupted.

 

Irritability, feeling depressed, mood swings and personality changes can be caused by the inability to sleep soundly and uninterrupted.

 

Other physical signs are frequent nighttime urination and dry throat upon waking.

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If the sleep apnea is mild, there are some lifestyle changes that can help.

 

• Avoid alcohol and medicines that make you sleepy. They make it harder for your throat to stay open while you sleep.

 

• Lose weight. Even a little weight loss can improve  your symptoms.

 

• To keep your throat open. sleep on your side instead of your back.

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• If needed, talk to your doctor about nose sprays or allergy medicines that might help keep your nasal passages open at night.

 

Moderate to severe sleep apnea can be successfully treated with a PAP device. We are here to help.