What Obstructive Sleep Apnea symptoms should I be aware of?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) commonly presents itself through a variety of symptoms, including:

• Pauses in breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner)
• Loud and frequent snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep 
• Excessive daytime sleepiness.

As a result of excessive daytime sleepiness, those suffering from OSA can develop fatigue, mood swings, headaches, depression, low sex drive and poor concentration.

Possible indicators that one may develop sleep apnea include obesity, neck size, high blood pressure, a narrowed airway, chronic nasal congestion, diabetes and family history. Studies have shown that Hispanics, African-Americans and Pacific Islanders are at higher risk for OSA. Age, male gender, smoking and use of alcohol or sedatives also have been associated with an increased risk.