During the day, you’re grouchy and unfocused. You try to sleep enough, but still wake up exhausted. So does your partner, who complains about your snoring. All these are signs of sleep apnea, a condition that causes you to stop and restart breathing many times during the night.
Obstructive sleep apnea affects an estimated 39 million U.S. adults. If you’re one of them, your health may be at risk. But treatment can restore a good night’s rest.
What Is Sleep Apnea — And Who’s At Risk?
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type. It occurs when muscles, tonsils, or other soft tissues in your throat block your airway. Central sleep apnea, meanwhile, happens when your brain doesn’t send the right signals to your breathing muscles. Many people have both.Besides snoring and daytime sleepiness, symptoms include:
- Waking up with a dry mouth or headaches
- Forgetfulness
- Restless sleep
- Sexual dysfunction
- Feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed
- Gasping during the night — something a bed partner might notice
While anyone can develop sleep apnea, it’s more common if you:
- Are age 65 or older
- Have a family history of sleep apnea
- Smoke and drink alcohol
- Are living with heart or kidney failure
Why — And How — to Seek Treatment
Sleep apnea can affect your work or school and your relationships. It can also lead to:
- Accidents and injuries
- Dementia
- Heart failure
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Liver problems
Talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms. They may recommend a sleep study to diagnose sleep apnea. Treatment often includes lifestyle changes, such as drinking less alcohol or sleeping on your side instead of your back. Or, you might need a breathing device called a CPAP machine. You’ll wear a mask to keep your airways free and clear all night long.
