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 What
is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is when you periodically stop breathing for 10 seconds or more
during sleep. This can happen hundreds of times each night interrupting a
person's sleep.
Is sleep apnea dangerous?
If left untreated sleep apnea can be dangerous and can cause a number of related
symptoms from general fatigue and headaches to high blood pressure, diabetes,
hypertension, stroke, and even death.
How would I know if I have sleep apnea?
People with sleep apnea generally exhibit some of the following:
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Excessive daytime sleepiness/fatigue
- Breathing stops periodically while sleeping.
- Your spouse or roommate tells you that you gasp for breath while asleep.
- You unintentionally fall asleep when watching TV, reading, and at the movies.
- You awaken unrefreshed after a night's sleep.
- You often feel groggy, dull, and unalert.
- You wake up with morning tension headaches.
- You fall asleep when driving or drive with an unawareness of your surroundings.
Most people with sleep apnea do not realize that they are awakening multiple times each night to breathe. Although arousal is slight it is enough to disrupt their sleep pattern causing them to get very little deep, restful sleep.
What should I do if I think I may have sleep apnea?
Dr. McAnnally can help you get the normal, healthy sleep you deserve. Click here to make an appointment now.
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