5 Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea You Shouldn't Ignore

Sleep apnea is a common yet often overlooked condition that can severely impact your health and quality of life. Characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Recognizing the early warning signs is crucial for seeking timely intervention and preventing further health issues. In this blog, we'll walk you through the top 10 warning signs of sleep apnea that you should never ignore, so you can take proactive steps towards safeguarding your health.

1. Loud and Persistent Snoring

Snoring is perhaps the most well-known symptom of sleep apnea, but not all snoring is created equal. If you or your partner notice that your snoring is exceptionally loud and occurs nightly, it could be an indication of obstructive sleep apnea. Look out for these signs:

• Snoring disrupts your partner's sleep
• Snoring is accompanied by gasping or choking sounds
• Snoring occurs regardless of sleep position

If your snoring fits this description, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Daytime Sleepiness and Fatigue

Feeling excessively tired during the day, even after a full night's sleep, is a red flag for sleep apnea. This condition prevents you from reaching deep, restorative sleep stages, leading to persistent fatigue. Symptoms include:

• Difficulty staying awake during meetings or while driving
• Falling asleep unexpectedly during the day
• Frequent need for naps

Daytime sleepiness can severely affect your productivity and safety, so it's crucial to address it promptly.

3. Morning Headaches

Waking up with a headache is another common symptom of sleep apnea. These headaches are typically caused by fluctuations in oxygen levels during sleep, which can lead to:

• A dull, throbbing sensation
• Pain that is usually bilateral (affecting both sides of the head)
• Headaches that improve as the day progresses

If morning headaches are a regular occurrence, it may be time to investigate further.

4. Difficulty Concentrating

Sleep apnea can take a toll on your cognitive functions, making it hard to concentrate and remember things. This cognitive impairment can manifest as:

• Memory lapses or forgetfulness
• Difficulty focusing on tasks
• Decreased productivity at work or school

Such symptoms can significantly impact your daily life, underscoring the need for a thorough evaluation.

5. Waking Up with a Dry Mouth or Sore Throat

Frequent episodes of stopped breathing during sleep often lead people to breathe through their mouth, especially at night. This can result in waking up with an uncomfortably dry mouth or a sore throat. You might notice:

• A parched, sticky feeling in the mouth when you wake up
• Needing to drink water during the night
• Chronic bad breath in the morning

While these symptoms might seem minor, they could point to an underlying issue like sleep apnea and shouldn’t be brushed off.

Take Control of Your Sleep Health in Plano

If you're experiencing any of these warning signs, it's important to take action now. At Plano Sleep & Headache Relief, Dr. Trevor Shewski and Dr. Peter Barnett are dedicated to helping you achieve better sleep and improved health. Don't let sleep apnea go untreated. Contact us at (972) 943-5944 to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards restful nights and energized days. Your journey to better sleep starts right here in Plano, TX.