Common sleep apnea signs and symptoms are snoring or gasping during sleep; reduced or absent breathing, called apnea events; and sleepiness. Undiagnosed or untreated sleep apnea prevents restful sleep and can cause complications that may affect many parts of your body.

 Sleep Apnea – Signs and Symptoms

Common signs of sleep apnea:

• Reduced or absent breathing, known as apnea events
• Frequent loud snoring
• Gasping for air during sleep

Common symptoms of sleep apnea:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue
• Decreases in attention, vigilance, concentration, motor skills, and verbal and visuospatial memory
• Dry mouth or headaches when waking
• Sexual dysfunction or decreased libido
• Waking up often during the night to urinate

Did you know that sleep apnea symptoms may be different for women and children compared with men?

Women who have sleep apnea more often report headache, fatigue, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and sleep disruption. Children may experience bedwetting, asthma exacerbations, hyperactivity, and learning and academic performance issues.

Content Details:
Source URL: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/subscribe/4231
Source Agency: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)