Sleep Apnea Symptoms to Watch For

Sleep Apnea Symptoms to Watch For The first sign that something is wrong with your sleep may not happen at night at all. You don’t really notice anything wrong during the night, but during the day you’re exhausted and forgetful. You may even find yourself falling asleep at inappropriate times and in inappropriate places. What, exactly could be wrong? Take a look at these sleep apnea symptoms, and see if they apply to you. First of all, do you go to bed at night, only to wake up unrefreshed – even exhausted? Are you forgetful during the day, feeling as if your brain is foggy. These symptoms can mean that, while you’re falling asleep in a reasonable amount of time, the sleep you’re getting isn’t restorative. There are several types, or cycles, of sleep, and your body and brain need to go through them all in order to recharge your batteries. Another sleep apnea symptom, and a very telling one, is waking up during the night choking or gasping for breath. If you’re unsure whether or not you do this, and you share your bed, ask your partner. You may not be aware of this happening, but chances are they know. They’ll also know if you’re a loud snorer. You may even wake yourself up snoring. Snoring is often, if not always, related to sleep apnea. While your asking your partner about your sleep habits, ask them if they hear silences during your sleep. This may sound odd, but silence, followed by gasping or snoring can indicate the actual cessation of breath that is sleep apnea. Do you find yourself waking up suddenly in the night, for no apparent reason, or do you find yourself waking up in a sweat when the room temperature is comfortable? These can be telling sleep apnea symptoms. You don’t realize that you’d stopped breathing; all you know is you’ve abruptly been pulled out of what appears to be a deep sleep. This is your body “startling” itself into breathing again. The constant battle with itself to keep breathing normally can cause you to sweat. If you’re showing sleep apnea symptoms, you need to see a sleep specialist. These doctors will probably send you to an overnight sleep study, which will show them what type of sleep apnea you have, and will allow them to begin to map out a treatment plan for you. Sleep apnea may seem like nothing more than a nuisance, but it can, in fact, be deadly. It deprives you of oxygen, and of proper sleep, which can lead you to workplace or motorway accidents. Don’t assume that it’s nothing; seek proper medical help. A good night’s sleep may be only a few doctor’s visits away.