Sleep is essential. Without it, we’re sluggish, less effective, and sometimes a bit more grumpy than usual (just to name a few side effects). Sometimes you aren’t aware that you’re not getting the best sleep you could get, and sleep apnea is a contender for the leading culprit of daytime sleepiness. Not sure if you have sleep apnea? At VitalCare Primary and Family Care, we have experts in diagnosing and treating this condition. 

Some common signs that you (or your sleeping partner) may have sleep this condition are: 

Pauses in Breathing While Sleeping

You should not stop breathing when you sleep, but it is a symptom you may not recognize in yourself, since you’re asleep. However, your sleeping partner may have better insight in this regard. A sleep study is the most accurate testing option to monitor your breathing while sleeping and receive an accurate diagnosis of this condition. 

Shortness of Breath

Many people wake up in the night, so that isn’t always a case of sleep apnea. However, waking up in the night with shortness of breath is an indicator that you may suffer from sleep apnea. If this is you, consider getting yourself checked out.

Daytime Fatigue

As an adult, you’re tired–especially if you have young children. Being tired is a part of life, but it can also be an indicator of sleep apnea. If, during the day, you are excessively tired or fatigued–no matter how much sleep you got the night before–you may be suffering from sleep apnea. This is partly because your body isn’t getting the amount of oxygen it needs for restful sleep, thus affecting your quality of sleep.

Dry Mouth/Sore Throat

Do you wake up with a dry mouth or a sore throat? Not only is it rather annoying, but it is actually a symptom of sleep apnea. These issues are caused by sleeping with an open mouth, another sign of apnea issues.

Insomnia

Insomnia got you up late? Do you wake up a lot at night? What about a fitful or restless sleep? If this is you, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a sleep apnea specialist to diagnose the problem.

Other Factors

Other factors can contribute to sleep apnea, such as being overweight, having a large neck, being middle-aged, or being a male. Remember, though, that people without any of those attributes can also have sleep apnea, but these are a good indicator that you may be at more of a risk.

Visit An Expert

Sleep apnea is treatable when it’s diagnosed correctly. If you need help overcoming your sleep disorder, VitalCare Primary and Family Care can help! Contact us online or call 804-256-8282 for an appointment with our sleep medicine provider and let us help you rest easy.