How do I know I am at risk?

Our doctors at Dreamwell Center take sleep apnea very seriously. Sleep apnea can lead to dangerous health complications, depriving you of the rest you need to function at your best. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur multiple times an hour, leading to poor sleep quality and various health issues.

Common Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Loud Snoring

Frequent, loud snoring is one of the most common indicators of sleep apnea, especially if it is punctuated by periods of silence followed by choking or gasping sounds.

Daytime Sleepiness

Feeling excessively sleepy during the day, even after a full night's sleep, can be a sign of interrupted sleep due to sleep apnea. This can manifest as difficulty staying awake at work, during meetings, or while driving.

Morning Headaches

Waking up with headaches can be a result of decreased oxygen levels during sleep, which is common in sleep apnea sufferers.

Difficulty Concentrating

Sleep apnea can lead to cognitive impairments, making it hard to concentrate, remember things, or make decisions.

Dry Mouth or Sore Throat

Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat can indicate mouth breathing caused by obstructed airways during sleep.

Insomnia or Nighttime Awakenings

Frequent awakenings during the night or difficulty staying asleep can be signs of sleep apnea.

Common Sleep Risk Factors

Excess Weight

Obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea. Fat deposits around the upper airway can obstruct breathing.

Neck Circumference

A thicker neck can indicate a narrower airway, increasing the risk of airway obstruction during sleep. Men with a neck circumference greater than 17 inches and women with a neck circumference greater than 16 inches are at higher risk.

Age

While sleep apnea can occur at any age, it is more common in older adults. As we age, muscle tone decreases, which can contribute to airway collapse.

Gender

Men are more likely than women to develop sleep apnea. However, the risk for women increases, particularly after menopause.

Family History

Having family members with sleep apnea increases your risk, suggesting a potential genetic predisposition.

Smoking and Alcohol Use

Smoking can increase inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway. Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat, which can interfere with breathing.

Nasal Congestion

Chronic nasal congestion, whether due to anatomy or allergies, can increase the likelihood of sleep apnea by narrowing the airways.

Medical Conditions

Hypertension

High blood pressure is commonly associated with sleep apnea. The condition can both contribute to and result from sleep apnea.

Diabetes

There is a higher prevalence of sleep apnea among individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Heart Disorders

Conditions such as congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and other heart diseases are often linked to sleep apnea.

Stroke

A history of stroke increases the risk of developing sleep apnea due to possible damage to the brain areas controlling breathing.

What Should You Do?

If you recognize any of these symptoms or risk factors, call our team at Dreamwell Center in Santa Rosa Beach or Panama City Beach. We will conduct a professional and comprehensive sleep study to diagnose the condition. Early detection and treatment of sleep apnea can prevent complications and improve your overall quality of life.

Don’t ignore the signs. If you suspect you might be at risk for sleep apnea, take action today and call our team today!

Contact us Today!

Panama City

900 Thomas Drive, Suite B
Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Mon-Fri: 8 am–5 pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
(850) 312-1850

Santa Rosa Beach

6757 US-98 Suite 302
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Mon-Fri: 9 am–5 pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
(850) 608-1850

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