Find out more about this sleep disorder and how it can impact your health.

Sleep apnea is a common issue, but just because it’s common doesn’t mean that it won’t have serious consequences for your health. Before your sleep apnea goes that far, talk to your Astoria, OR sleep medicine specialists at Pacific Sleep Program about your symptoms.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that affects your overall quality of sleep. While asleep, this disorder causes you to stop breathing many times throughout the night--much as 30 times or more an hour! This disruption to your breathing causes your body to move from deep to light sleep, resulting in bad sleep.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Those with obstructive sleep apnea (one of the most common forms) often experience loud or persistent snoring. Their partner may also notice choking or gasping sounds while they sleep. Sleeping on your back can also increase your chances of loud snoring, so remember that not everyone who snores is dealing with sleep apnea.

Other symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Headaches in the morning
• Irritability or mood swings
• Daytime sleepiness and trouble staying awake
• Memory problems or forgetfulness
• Sore throat or dry mouth when waking up

Children with sleep apnea may suffer from bad performance in school, act out, or be hyperactive. Children with sleep apnea are also more likely to breathe out of their mouths.

Why is sleep apnea so serious?

If you are dealing with any of these symptoms then it’s time you talked to one of our Astoria sleep doctors. By not treating your sleep apnea, not only do you leave yourself prone to bad sleep night after night and an increased risk of work or automotive accidents, but you are also putting your health in jeopardy. Sleep apnea can increase your chances of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

You will require long-term care and maintenance to prevent sleep apnea from affecting your overall health, which is where the doctors at Pacific Sleep Program come in. So if you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or you are currently trying to control your sleep issues, it’s time you turned to the sleep experts at Pacific Sleep Program in Astoria, OR. Let us help you achieve sweet dreams.