About Sleep Apnea

Have you ever been told that you sometimes stop breathing while asleep, or that your snoring is interrupted by pauses, gasps and snorting noises? These are all signs that you may be suffering from sleep apnea. This condition can be extremely disruptive and frustrating to a bed partner, and can also be quite harmful to your health.

• An apnea is the suspension of breathing
• Sleep apneas can last from a few seconds to more than a minute
• Each stoppage in breath results in drops in blood oxygen levels
• To resume breathing, the body’s nervous system triggers a stress response
• The sleeper is momentarily startled awake, but usually does not remember
• Sleep apnea sufferers may have dozens to hundreds of apneas each night

The ongoing release of stress hormones and repeated instantaneous awakenings throughout the night rob sleep apnea sufferers of the benefits of restorative rest. Though they are sleep deprived, many sufferers do not have any idea of the severity of their condition, and believe themselves to be sleeping soundly throughout the night. There are immediately recognizable effects, however, which can include:

• Experiencing sudden unexplained awakenings during the night
• Awakening in the morning with a sore throat or a headache
• Decreased visual acuity
• Poor memory or an inability to maintain mental focus
• An ongoing sense of listlessness, irritability or depression
• Nodding off when sitting or driving
• Poor performance at work or school