Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Risks & Treatment Options
Learn about obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), warning signs, health risks, diagnosis, and treatment including CPAP and alternatives.
Key Points
- Sleep apnea causes repeated breathing pauses during sleepAffects 25% of men, 10% of women (often undiagnosed)Major symptoms: loud snoring, gasping, daytime fatigueIncreases risk of hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetesCPAP therapy is highly effective but requires consistent use
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when throat muscles relax during sleep, blocking the airway. This causes breathing pauses (apneas) lasting 10+ seconds, often hundreds of times per night. Your brain briefly wakes you to restart breathing, fragmenting sleep even if you don't remember waking.
Warning Signs
• Loud, chronic snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Witnessed breathing pauses
• Excessive daytime sleepiness despite "adequate" sleep
• Morning headaches
• Poor concentration, memory issues
If you have these symptoms, ask your doctor about a sleep study (polysomnography).
Get Personalized Sleep Guidance
Qumfy applies evidence-based sleep science to create a custom improvement plan for your unique situation.