Do you suspect that you suffer from sleep apnea? If so, it will help to know the following warning signs so that you can take action to help treat it.

Snoring

Snoring is not just a condition that disrupts your partner as they try to sleep next to you. It is a sign that you are dealing with sleep apnea. While the occasional snoring may be related to having a cold or some other sinus related issue, you need to be concerned with snoring that happens regularly. The loudness of the snoring should also be considered as well, since sleep apnea is typically associated with loud snoring. 

Losing Breath While Sleeping

Do you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night because you can't catch your breath? You may wake up suddenly and feel like you are choking or suddenly start gasping for air. 

Sweating

Be concerned if you wake up in the morning and feel like you have been sweating a lot while you were sleeping. This may not be due to having the thermostat set too high or having too many layers of sheets covering you.

Dry Mouth

Do you frequently wake up in the morning and feel like you have a sore throat? Your mouth may be drying out overnight from your snoring, which results in the sensation like you're getting sick and have soreness in the back of your throat.

Drowsiness

All of these problems will contribute to having drowsiness during the day, which is likely due to not getting a good night's sleep. 

High Blood Pressure

Having high blood pressure can be a side effect of dealing with sleep apnea. If your doctor said you have high blood pressure at your last regular check up, know that treating your sleep apnea could be a way to help lower your blood pressure

Obesity

Being overweight makes someone more prone to having sleep apnea. If you are experiencing these warning signs and know that you have quite a bit of weight to lose, know that they may all be related to sleep apnea.

If you notice these signs and symptoms, you should actually bring it up with your dentist at your next checkup. They can create a sleep apnea appliance that will help stop the snoring and help you sleep more soundly at night. Not only will your partner thank you for having the problem treated, but you'll be on the road to better health.

For more information, contact a local clinic like Jerry C Hu DDS Family Dentistry LLC.