Sleep apnea is an important sleep disorder where individuals experience irregular breathing and a pause while sleeping. Pauses in breathing could last as long as 10 to 20 seconds and may occur 30 times or more per hour. There are two types of sleep apnea. The first is obstructive sleep apnea and the second is central sleep apnea.

When an individual suffers from sleep apnea, his breathing will be either ceased or reduced significantly. In simple words, one of the most common signs of sleep apnea is noticed when the breathing is stopped for 10 seconds or more than that. In this article, we will discuss the other signs of sleep apnea in details.

Drop of Oxygen Level

Since apnea is characterized as an absolute cessation of airflow or significant reduction, which results in at least a 4% decline in the oxygen saturation level within blood. This occurs as a direct consequence of decline in the transfer rate of oxygen through the blood at the time breathing ceases. This is one of the most significant signs of sleep apnea.

Disruption in Sleep

Sleep can be severely interrupted. You may even wake up fully. You may wake from a deep sleep and still stay in a lighter sleep. This is a common sign and is why sleep apnea measured while sleeping.

Headaches and Dry Throats

These are also common signs. When you have sleep apnea and wake in the morning you will probably have a dry throat. This can be very uncomfortable and become a hindrance in trying to breathe. A morning headache will also add to a person feeling tired after a nights sleep.

Drowsiness during the Day

People with sleep apnea have such a difficult time because of the sleeping patterns to reach a restful sleep. They can become tired during the day. Their evening sleep can also include loud snoring or snorting.

Lack of Oxygen

The cardiovascular system can be threatened because of the drop of the oxygen level while sleeping. It is important that the cardiovascular system work at its peak in order to supply the tissues with the required amount of oxygen. Without this happening you could develop high blood pressure and even be at risk for heart attacks or strokes.