Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Sleep apnea symptoms can be difficult to detect because they may initially seem like minor, everyday occurrences. Additionally, the disorder can show up in different forms and disguise itself as other disorders. Patients are often unaware that they’re struggling to breathe or snoring loudly during sleep. For many sufferers, other family members or sleeping partners are the ones to bring the problem to their attention.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms

OSA symptoms can manifest in a number of different forms, but the most common include:

Nighttime Symptoms:

• Loud and persistent snoring
• Choking or gasping while you sleep
• Pauses in breathing
• Restless sleeps
• Frequent bathroom trips

Daytime Symptoms:

• Morning headaches
• Excessive daytime fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Depression or irritability
• Sleepiness during routine activities

Central Sleep Apnea Symptoms

While obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea can present similar symptoms, there are different mechanisms at play. CSA occurs when the brain “forgets” to tell the lungs to breathe, leaving sufferers gasping for air throughout the night.

However, Cheyne-Stokes breathing is a hallmark of central sleep apnea. This occurs when, after a long pause in breathing, carbon dioxide builds up in the lungs. When CO2 reaches unsafe levels, the brain triggers shallow breathing which gradually grows deeper to clear the lungs. Once the CO2 levels normalize, the cycle begins once more.

Let Desert Dental Group Help You Sleep Soundly Again

If you’re exhibiting any of the symptoms above, call Dr. Brett Barney, Dr. Jonathan Hall or Dr. Aaron Charpentier right away. Untreated sleep apnea can be life-threatening, which is why it’s imperative that you seek professional help as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. Make an appointment with our office today to get your health back on track.