Know signs of sleep apnea

If you’re still tired after getting a full night’s rest, you may be experiencing a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, more than 12 million Americans have sleep apnea. Dr. Fidaa Shaib, associate professor of pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at Baylor College of Med sleep-photo icine and director of the Baylor Sleep Center, says many of those with sleep apnea are unaware they have it.

“Sleep apnea is caused by a narrowing or complete collapse of the upper airway that occurs in some people while they are sleeping, and this can affect one’s ability to get oxygen to the body, making the body work harder to breathe.”

Signs and symptoms of sleep apnea

Knowing the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea and subsequently getting it treated can lower your risk of ailments such as heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke. You should seek help if you or your partner is experiencing the following symptoms:

Choking or gasping for air
Breathing stoppages
Loud snoring
Feeling tired throughout the day
Restless sleep
Excessive sweating at night
Not feeling refreshed in the morning
Waking up multiple times during the night

Over 50 percent of those diagnosed with sleep apnea are overweight or obese. Dr. Shaib says lifestyle changes and weight loss are important to the treatment and management of sleep apnea.