Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people every day. It is a serious condition that can lead to further health problems like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
The cause of sleep apnea is when your breathing is interrupted during sleep. Most people with sleep apnea are unaware of their condition and go undiagnosed until they experience other health complications.
There are various symptoms of sleep apnea, including snoring, insomnia, morning headache, irritability, memory problems, and sleepiness during the day.
If you think you may be at risk for sleep apnea, take this questionnaire to see if you should consult a medical professional.
Questionnaire
1. Are you overweight or obese?
If your BMI (body mass index) is over 25, you’re more likely to be at risk for sleep apnea.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
2. Do you smoke or drink alcohol regularly?
Both smoking and alcohol can increase the frequency and severity of sleep apnea symptoms.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
3. Do you have high blood pressure or heart disease?
Having a pre-existing cardiovascular condition puts you at a higher risk for sleep apnea.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
4. Do you frequently feel daytime fatigue or sleepiness?
Feeling tired during the day can be a result of poor sleep and is a common symptom of sleep apnea.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
5. Does your partner or roommate complain about your snoring or breathing during sleep?
People with sleep apnea often snore loudly and have frequent pauses in breathing during sleep. They may also gasp or choke when they resume breathing.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
6. Do you experience morning headaches or dry mouth upon waking?
Interrupted breathing during sleep can cause a decrease in oxygen, leading to headaches and dry mouth upon waking.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
7. Do you experience insomnia or have difficulty falling or staying asleep?
People with sleep apnea often have difficulty with sleep onset or wake up frequently throughout the night.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
8. Are you male or over 40 years old?
Both males and older individuals are more likely to be at risk for sleep apnea.
Yes (1 point) No (0 points).
Your Results
0-2: Low risk for sleep apnea.
3-5: Moderate risk for sleep apnea. Consider consulting a medical professional.
6-8: High risk for sleep apnea. It is strongly recommended that you consult a medical professional for evaluation and treatment.