Does your bed partner snore loudly and then gasp for air while sleeping? If so, they may have sleep apnea. This disorder causes brief moments of unconsciousness during sleep, leading to difficulty breathing. It can cause fatigue during the day, as well as headaches and difficulty focusing.
Although snoring and difficulty breathing are the most obvious sleep apnea symptoms, there are others to watch for. People with sleep apnea may wake up frequently during the night, even if they don’t remember doing so. They may also have difficulty sleeping, and wake up feeling tired.
Other signs of sleep apnea include morning headaches, dry mouth or sore throat, and mood changes. Because the disorder can affect the quality of your sleep, it can also have an impact on your partner. If you think you may have it, it’s important to talk to a doctor.
There are treatments available, such as weight loss, quitting smoking, or medication. If these don’t help, a device called a CPAP machine may be recommended. This machine uses air pressure to keep your airway open while you sleep.
If you believe you or someone you know is experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, take action. Speak to a doctor or healthcare professional to find the appropriate treatment. With proper management, the quality of your or your partner’s sleep—and overall health—can improve.
