Understanding Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Understanding Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Sleep apnea is a very serious sleep disorder affecting over 18 million American sleepers. It is a condition in which a person's breathing is continuously interrupted during sleep. The cessation of breathing can last from 10 seconds to as long as 60 seconds and occur more than a few times a night. If you find yourself unable to breathe properly at night and wake up gasping for breath, it is likely that you are suffering from sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea deprives the body of sleep and also of oxygen. If left untreated it will get worse. High blood pressure can develop as can other types of cardiovascular disease. Sleep apnea can become so severe that it could endanger your life.

There are some common symptoms of sleep apnea that you have to take note. The most obvious symptom is a constant feeling of sleepiness throughout the day and unable to concentrate on their work. Some serious suffers may even fall asleep while talking with someone. The main reason for this is due to the continuous interrupted sleep throughout the night.

The other sleep apnea symptoms include sweating profusely during sleep, gasping or choking, unusually loud snoring and waking suddenly frequently to catch breath.

Other than that, some side-effects of sleep apnea can also affect your daily lifestyle. Due to the slight increase in circulating acid in your body as your digestive system is not rested through the night, some sleep apnea sufferers might get heatburn in the morning. As a result of lack of concentration, you might also lose interest in many things, including sex. There is also a possibility of getting high blood pressure.

If you find yourself having the sleep apnea symptoms listed above, it is very likely that you are suffering from sleep apnea. Never take it lightly as it could be life threatening. Get it treated immediately.