Many of these signs can happen for a number of reasons, but Dzierzewski said that it’s important to note the frequency and if these things are happening even while you maintain healthy sleep habits, like maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding alcohol and nicotine before, and establishing a nightly wind-down routine. If these signs consistently occur with a healthy lifestyle and sleep habits, it’s a good idea to see a sleep specialist.
“If it’s been about a month and there’s no acute life stressors, mood disorders, or existing health concerns, these signs could indicate a sleep disorder,” Yuen said. “Also, pay attention to how you feel the next day in different sleeping positions. If you sleep on your back and feel foggy and fatigued compared to a night when you sleep on your side, this could be a tip-off to having a breathing problem.”
It’s important to be aware of your personal risk factors, too. Men and women who are overweight are at a higher risk, especially if that weight sits in the neck or chest area. Dzierzewski said that men tend to display higher rates of sleep apnea, while Yuen noted that certain hormonal disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase the risk for women because of weight gain. Other risk factors include teeth or jaw-structured challenges (Yuen said your dentist may flag this for you) and people who suffer from acid reflux.
Finally, “if you’re pregnant and experiencing any of these symptoms (including snoring in the first trimester) mention it to your health care provider immediately,” Yuen said. It’s important to treat sleep apnea in pregnancy early on to prevent other health conditions later for the mother and baby.”
This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
