Sleep apnea is when a person cannot sleep and breathe properly at the same time. Loud snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea. Snoring is a sign that the airway is not fully open, and you may not be getting enough oxygen while you sleep. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, heart attack or stroke. If you snore in any position, (side, back or stomach) then you need to see your physician about a referral to a sleep specialist.
In addition to snoring, sleep apnea is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue. You may fall asleep at inappropriate times, such as at work or while driving. Forgetfulness, irritability or depression are also symptoms of sleep apnea. Morning headaches and loss of interest in sex may also be a sign.
The victim of sleep apnea is usually unaware of the problem, but the pauses in breathing are very alarming to the bed partner. A pattern of snoring, interrupted by silence, then gasps are indications that breathing has stopped and then started again. In severe cases, this can occur hundreds of times a night. Children can also have sleep apnea. Snoring is not normal in a child and needs to be reported to your doctor. Enlarged tonsils or obesity can contribute to sleep apnea in children.
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