Loud snoring

Sleepless nights

Daytime fatigue

Does this sound familiar? Or does it sound like someone you know? All of these are warning signs of sleep apnea, a condition that 6 million people are diagnosed with, but many more may have. 80% of individuals have the condition and are unaware of it.

Sleep apnea is more than just interrupted sleep. It can complicate other aspects of your life, like your heart health. It can also lead to memory problems, depression and increased sensitivity to pain.

But how do you know if you have sleep apnea? And how can you monitor your symptoms when you’re not alert and awake to see them?

The Role of Bed Partners and Sleep Apnea

Sometimes, a sleep disorder diagnosis is not initiated by the person with symptoms, but the person who is experiencing negative effects by sharing a bed with someone with sleep apnea.

If you are a bed partner and are experiencing frequent wakeups due to your partner’s restless sleep, keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping for air
• Interrupted breathing
• Restlessness
• Frequent repositioning

Help and treatment are available. Keep a log of your partner’s symptoms, or if you’re able, accompany them to the doctor to discuss their symptoms.

Sleep Apnea Signs in Women

While sleep apnea is more common in men, the risk of sleep apnea rises as a woman enters menopause. The symptoms often present more subtly in women. Keep an eye out for the following signs:

• Daytime fatigue

Many of these symptoms can be confused with menopause symptoms. If you are experiencing daytime fatigue or depression, do not hesitate to ask your doctor about sleep apnea. 9 in 10 women with sleep apnea are not aware that they have it, but a diagnosis and treatment could make all the difference in your heart health and sleep quality.

Sleep Apnea and Your Heart

It is recommended that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep every night. When sleep is interrupted or cut short by a sleep disorder, like sleep apnea, it can have lasting effects on the body, including the heart.

Sleep apnea increases the risk of heart failure by 140%, the risk of stroke by 60% and the risk of coronary heart disease by 30%. Those who have untreated sleep apnea are twice as likely to have a heart attack. But why exactly?

Interrupted breathing makes it challenging for the body to receive the amount of oxygen it needs to function properly. When the body has low oxygen levels, it produces adrenaline, which is a stress hormone. Too many stress hormones over time can lead to high blood pressure, which in turn, can open the door to increased heart events.

What Can I Do?

Sleep apnea is treatable. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, speak with your trusted provider. They may refer you to a specialty care provider for a sleep test to determine the proper diagnosis and best possible treatment option.

When you or a loved one takes the time to monitor your symptoms and speak to a doctor about your concerns, you’re taking one step towards improving your sleep quality and improving your heart health.