Do you find yourself struggling to stay awake during the day, even after a full night’s sleep? Do coworkers joke that you fall asleep at your desk, or do you notice loud snoring at night? These could be signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Obstructive sleep apnea is a common but often undiagnosed sleep disorder where the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. This obstruction causes repeated pauses in breathing, which can reduce oxygen levels and disrupt the natural sleep cycle. People with OSA often feel tired, groggy, or lethargic during the day, even if they think they’ve slept “enough.”
OSA affects millions of adults worldwide. Studies suggest that 1 in 5 adults may have mild OSA, while 1 in 15 may have moderate to severe OSA. It can affect anyone, but risk factors include excess weight, a large neck circumference, nasal obstruction, alcohol use, and age.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or brain fog
- Morning headaches
- Irritability or mood changes
Tests for sleep apnea can include:
- Polysomnography (sleep study) – usually done in a lab to monitor breathing, oxygen levels, and brain activity
- Home sleep tests – simpler versions that measure oxygen levels and airflow overnight
However, you don’t always need complicated hospital tests or overnight studies to recognize the condition. Many people notice daytime symptoms such as feeling lethargic, falling asleep at work, or struggling to stay alert, which are strong indicators that a professional evaluation is needed.
Left untreated, OSA can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Early identification and management can greatly improve energy, focus, and overall health.
This is not a diagnosis – see Dr. Parish for proper testing, guidance, and strategies to improve your sleep and wellbeing.
