New Research Reveals Surprising Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
New research has shed light on the lesser-known symptoms of sleep apnea, a common respiratory disorder that affects approximately one in four adults.
While snoring is often associated with sleep apnea, it is not the only symptom to watch out for. According to recent studies, night sweats, frequent waking up to go to the bathroom, teeth grinding, morning headaches, depression, tiredness, and insomnia can all be indicative of the condition.
The intermittent decrease in oxygen supply caused by apnea increases the risk of hypertension, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, fatty liver, kidney and eye dysfunction, and motor vehicle accidents, both at work and at home, caused by daytime drowsiness linked to poor sleep. Overweight and obesity are among the most important risk factors, but around 40 percent of those with apnea do not have extra pounds.
Many people with sleep apnea do not notice anything and it is their partner who detects the breathing pauses. For example, night sweats have been reported by approximately 30% of people with obstructive apnea, while frequent waking up to go to the bathroom and teeth grinding can also be symptoms to watch out for.
Morning headaches, depression, tiredness, and insomnia can be associated with sleep fragmentation caused by apnea. Symptoms like excessive drowsiness, attention and memory deficits, difficulty concentrating, headaches, mood swings, erectile dysfunction and decreased desire can all be linked to poor sleep quality caused by the disorder.
The research also highlighted that women can also suffer from sleep apnea, especially after menopause. This challenges the common misconception that the condition mostly affects men.
It is important for individuals who experience these symptoms to consult a healthcare professional to determine if they may be related to sleep apnea. Early detection and treatment can help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of other health complications associated with the disorder.