Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common condition in which breathing repeatedly stops or becomes very shallow during sleep. This disrupts sleep and can lower blood oxygen levels.

Many people with sleep apnea do not know they have it.

Signs of Sleep Apnea

Common signs include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, pauses in breathing, frequent awakenings, morning headaches, and daytime sleepiness or fatigue.

Often a spouse or partner notices the breathing pauses first.

Why It Matters

Untreated sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, stroke, metabolic problems, and daytime sleepiness.

It may also affect memory and cognitive function, and researchers are studying its possible connection with cognitive decline.

Who Is at Risk?

Obesity is an important risk factor, but people who are not overweight can also have sleep apnea. Risk increases with age, and airway anatomy, alcohol use, certain medications. Other factors can also contribute.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Sleep apnea can be diagnosed with an overnight sleep study, and many people can now be tested at home.

The best-known treatment is CPAP, which keeps the airway open with gentle air pressure. Other options include oral appliances, weight loss when appropriate, changing sleep position, and, in selected cases, surgery or implanted devices.

Anyone who snores heavily, repeatedly stops breathing during sleep, or has unexplained daytime sleepiness should consider discussing sleep apnea testing with a doctor.

Learn More

Sleep Apnea — National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

A clear overview of symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment, including home sleep testing, CPAP, and other treatment options.

Video

Obstructive Sleep Apnea — Mayo Clinic - 3 Minutes

A brief explanation of what obstructive sleep apnea is, why breathing is interrupted during sleep, and how it can affect health.