Disorientation upon awakening can be an alarming experience. You may feel confused, unsure of your surroundings, and even feel as though you are not in control of your body.

There are a number of possible reasons why someone may awaken feeling disoriented; one potential cause, however, is a fairly serious health issue that should be addressed immediately.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a medical condition that occurs when an individual’s breathing is disrupted during sleep by partial or complete blockage of their airway.

When someone with OSA is asleep, their airway narrows or closes off entirely, causing them to stop breathing. This can occur multiple times throughout the night, often lasting several seconds each time.

What Causes Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is typically caused by excess tissue at the back of the throat that falls down over the airway when one lies down to sleep.

Other factors that can contribute to OSA include being overweight or obese, having a family history of the condition, or having a naturally narrow airway.

What are the Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

There are a number of symptoms that may indicate that you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Some of the most common symptoms include:.

Loud, persistent snoring
Gasping or choking during sleep
Pauses in breathing during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Frequent headaches in the morning
Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

Why is Obstructive Sleep Apnea a Serious Condition?

While it may seem like snoring and a little bit of sleepiness during the day won’t hurt anyone, the truth is that Obstructive Sleep Apnea can actually cause a wide range of serious health problems if left untreated.

Here are just a few of the potential complications:.

High blood pressure
Heart problems, including heart disease or heart attack
Stroke
Diabetes
Depression
Memory problems
Headaches

How is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

The first step in diagnosing Obstructive Sleep Apnea is to talk to your doctor about your symptoms. They will likely perform a physical exam, as well as ask about your medical history to get a better sense of what may be causing your symptoms.

If your doctor suspects that you have OSA, they may recommend undergoing a sleep study. This may involve staying overnight in a sleep center, where your breathing, heart rate, and other vital signs will be monitored while you sleep.

How is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treated?

Luckily, there are several treatment options available for individuals with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following:.

Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which provides a steady stream of air to keep your airway open while you sleep.
Oral appliances, which can help keep your airway open by pushing your jaw forward.
Surgery to remove excess tissue from the throat.

Conclusion

If you frequently wake up feeling disoriented or experience any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible.

While it may seem like no big deal, OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA can be a serious condition that requires prompt attention.