Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that many people are unaware they have because it happens while they are sleeping. In most cases, someone who has seen and heard them sleep brings it to their attention. However, you can have daytime symptoms that can indicate a sleep disorder. Do you know what to look for? Sleep apnea has a myriad of symptoms of which you can be aware: daytime symptoms, nighttime symptoms, painful symptoms, and more. Do you have any of these symptoms?
Common Sleep Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms that occur when a person is sleeping and suffers from sleep apnea are excessive, loud snoring; snorting, choking, or gasping for air; and lapses in breathing.
Daytime Symptoms
If you are suffering from sleep apnea during the night, you will eventually get daytime symptoms. Such symptoms include:
- Lack of concentration
- Poor memory recall and/or forgetfulness
- Irritability
- Chronic fatigue
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms that you may not think are related to sleep apnea include waking up with headaches, and experiencing heartburn (a painful burning sensation in your chest). Acid reflux has also been associated with sleep apnea. Acid reflux is the regurgitation of stomach acid back up into your esophagus. The symptoms of acid reflux include indigestion, burping, a burning feeling in your chest, and a sour taste in your mouth.
Other symptoms that may also be indicative of problems separate from sleep apnea, but have also been associated with sleep apnea include dry mouth, falling asleep during the day, depression, impotence, irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure.
About Your Livonia MI Dentist Dr. Stewart
James R. Stewart, Jr, DDS, PC and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, MI., Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. If you think you or a loved one is dealing with a sleep disorder, call our office today at (734) 425-4400, to schedule an appointment. At Dental Sleep Medicine of Michigan, we are committed to forming trusting relationships with our patients so we can work together to achieve sound treatment and a future full of restful nights.
