Better Sleep Month Series
Sleep apnea is extremely common in those of us with fibromyalgia, and without proper treatment it can be debilitating and possibly even deadly. Knowing the symptoms can help you identify whether you have sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea symptoms include:
- Episodes of obstructed breathing during sleep, which you may or not be aware of
- Loud snoring
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Snorting, gasping or choking that wakes you up
- High blood pressure
- Symptoms similar to those of fibromyalgia, including unrefreshing sleep & excessive daytime sleepiness; difficulty concentrating; personality changes; depression; insomnia
My first symptom of sleep apnea was a sudden, sharp rise in daytime sleepiness. I then realized I was waking up a lot overnight, sometimes with a snort. My husband reported my snoring had gotten worse.
Once I was diagnosed and sleeping with a CPAP machine, those symptoms went away and my blood pressure got easier to control. (And my husband sleeps better, too!)
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about it. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to stroke, heart disease, diabetes and even sudden death. Don't take this one lightly!
Do you suspect sleep apnea? Have you been diagnosed with it? How has treatment helped you? Share your experience by leaving a comment below!
Suggested Reading:
- Sleep Studies: What to Expect
- Barriers to Sleep With Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Create Better Sleep Habits
Photo © A.D.A.M.
I have had sleep apnea for years. My wife had also complained about the snoring. Unfortunately the cpap doesn’t work for me.
CPAP doesn’t work for you? Maybe you haven’t learned to work with it. Check out cpaptalk.com where other CPAP users will help you find a way to make your therapy work. The consequences of untreated sleep apnea on you (and also your loved ones) are too serious to ignore. Apnea is not just about the snoring…