Sleep Apnea
A serious disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
Overview
Sleep apnea causes breathing to repeatedly pause during sleep, lowering oxygen levels and disrupting rest.
It's linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, and daytime fatigue, but treatment is very effective.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea.
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Pauses in breathing witnessed by others
- Daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
Causes
What can lead to this condition.
- Relaxed throat muscles blocking the airway (obstructive)
- Brain not signaling breathing muscles (central)
- Excess weight and neck size
Risk factors
Factors that can increase your risk.
- Obesity
- Large neck circumference
- Being male and older
- Family history
Diagnosis
How providers typically confirm this condition.
- Sleep study (in-lab or at home)
- Evaluation of symptoms and risk factors
Treatment options
Approaches that help manage or resolve the condition.
- CPAP therapy
- Oral appliances
- Weight loss
- Surgery in select cases
Prevention
Steps that may help prevent or reduce the condition.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid alcohol before bed
- Sleep on your side
When to see a doctor
- Loud snoring with daytime fatigue
- Witnessed pauses in breathing
Seek emergency care
- Choking or gasping with chest pain, or falling asleep while driving — seek prompt care
Recommended specialists & nearby providers
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Care for sleep apnea is covered by most major insurance plans. Filter providers by your plan on Hippo Intelligence to find in-network options.
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