We’ve all heard the expression “sawing logs,” but does it
actually sound like you’re using power tools in your bedroom when you go to
sleep at night? If so, you might be suffering from severe snoring, which could in turn
be a sign that you’re experiencing the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Though snoring loudly might bother your spouse, roommates,
or anybody you share a home with, sleep apnea could
pose a very serious risk to your health. Sleep apnea patients suffer lapses in
breathing during sleep, sometimes hundreds of times a night. Snoring and waking
up with a start to catch your breath are some of the earliest symptoms, while
over time this sleep disorder can increase your risk of obesity, depression,
heart attack, and other major health concerns.
If somebody who sleeps nearby tells you that you snore, a
sleep physician can determine if it’s indicative of sleep apnea. There are
three different “grades” of snoring:
- Grade 1: Snoring is irregular and comparatively quiet; no effect on patient’s breathing during sleep
- Grade 2: Snoring occurs at least three nights a week and can become loud; airway does slightly narrow, meaning patient could experience some breathing difficulties
- Grade 3: Snoring occurs nightly and is extremely loud; breathing could be interrupted or even stop for brief periods of time during sleep
Patients who snore heavily and suffer from symptoms like
daytime fatigue, headaches when waking up, and memory difficulties could be
experiencing sleep apnea. To find out more about this disorder and prospective
treatment options, please contact
a sleep doctor in your area or call 1-877-727-6275
(1-8-NO-PAP-MASK) today.