Sleep apnea affects an estimated 22 million Americans. Often, the first symptom is excessive or loud snoring. However, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and sleep apnea can have many other symptoms. The risk of having sleep apnea varies with someone’s age, height, weight and current health conditions. It occurs when the upper airway muscles in your throat becoming relaxed, which in return blocks the airway and your breathing. While you sleep, your body will quickly wake up to start breathing again. Waking up throughout the night is not a healthy solution to breathe.
Here at CPAP Central, we have come up with a quiz to help you determine if you or a loved one may be struggling with untreated sleep apnea:
Have you or your bed partner witnessed any gasping or choking during sleep?
- Yes
- No
Have you or your bed partner witnessed a stop or pause in breathing?
- Yes
- No
Do you have to sit upright to get better sleep?
- Yes
- No
Do you visit the bathroom frequently when you wake up at night?
- Yes
- No
Do you snore in any sleep position?
- Yes
- No
Have you or your bed partner seen an increase in weight?
- Yes
- No
Do you find yourself struggling to stay awake, even after a full night’s rest?
- Yes
- No
Do you struggle with depression?
- Yes
- No
If you have answered yes for four or more questions, please seek setting up an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to refer you to a local sleep test center to see if you suffer from sleep apnea.
For further questions about sleep apnea or CPAP masks and equipment, contact CPAP Central today! Our live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:30-4:30, EST.