The apnea causes a drop in the amount of oxygen in the blood circulation and reaching the brain. The affected individual s bed partner is usually the one to notice and describe the symptoms. The person often snores loudly. The snoring is punctuated by repeated pauses in breathing, snorting, choking, gasping or sudden awakening. Because of the interrupted sleep the person with apnea may have daytime headaches and fatigue and a loss of mental alertness.
Sleep apnea can eventually lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
It tends to affect men far more than women. If you have been told you have sleep apnea, you will likely be asked to make changes to your lifestyle such as quit smoking, lose weight and decrease your alcohol consumption. Sleeping on your side rather than your back can also be an important preventive measure. Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. If you have concerns about your sleep patterns, or that of your bed partner, consult your doctor.