Is Sleep Apnea Making It Hard to Sleep?

Submitted by New Jersey Snoring Solutions on Wed 02/19/2020 - 09:00

Sleep apnea can interfere with your sleep quality and cause you to wake up frequently during the night. If you are consistently having trouble sleeping or always tired during the day, it may be because of sleep apnea.

In this post, West Orange sleep specialist Dr. Ivan Stein discusses sleeping problems and other symptoms of sleep apnea.

How Sleep Apnea Affects Sleep

Sleep apnea is often caused by an obstructed airway that makes it harder to breathe while you sleep. Loud snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, but you may only know about it if your spouse or partner complains about it.

The pauses in breathing can interfere with your sleep throughout the night. You may be suddenly awakened and feel like you are choking. However, it’s possible that you won’t be consciously aware of how your sleep is being impacted by sleep apnea. You may only notice that you feel fatigued during the day no matter how much sleep you get.

Signs of Sleep Apnea

Along with snoring, daytime drowsiness is another common indicator of sleep apnea. If you feel lethargic and often fall asleep after sitting still for a few minutes, it’s possible that something is hurting your sleep quality.

Other signs of sleep apnea include:

• A sore throat in the morning
• Mood swings
• Inability to concentrate
• Memory problems
• Reduced libido

If you have several symptoms of sleep apnea, you should discuss your concerns with a doctor. You may be referred to a sleep specialist who can diagnose sleep apnea or other sleeping disorders.

Sleep Apnea Treatments

Sleep apnea is treatable. There are ways to improve your sleep quality and reduce the negative effects of sleep apnea.

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are often the first treatment option used for sleep apnea. The pressurized air keeps your airway open while you sleep.

Some people have trouble adjusting to the CPAP machines. They are bulky and may be uncomfortable. If you tried CPAP but can’t tolerate it, you may want to consider getting an oral appliance.

Oral appliances are a comfortable and portable sleep apnea treatment option. A dentist can customize your oral appliance to achieve an ideal fit.

By getting help with your sleep apnea, you can find the right treatment option and feel well-rested and energetic again.

To get help with sleep apnea, contact New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Stein by calling (855) WHY-SNORE or (855) 949-7667 today.