Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common but potentially serious sleep disorder where the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep.

This can lead to a number of complications such as fatigue, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Fortunately, there are warning signs of OSA that can help you identify whether you or a loved one may be suffering from this condition.

1. Loud Snoring

If you snore loudly and frequently, this can be a sign of OSA. When the airway becomes partially blocked, the air passing through can cause vibrations that lead to snoring.

2. Episodes of Gasping or Choking

If you wake up suddenly in the middle of the night gasping for breath or choking, this can be a sign of OSA. It means that your body is waking itself up in order to clear the airway and get oxygen.

3. Daytime Sleepiness

If you find yourself feeling excessively tired throughout the day, this can be a sign that you are not getting enough quality sleep at night due to OSA.

4. Morning Headaches

If you wake up in the morning with headaches, this can be a sign of OSA due to the lack of oxygen that can occur during sleep.

5. Irritability and Mood Changes

Lack of quality sleep can lead to irritability and mood changes. If you find yourself feeling overly irritable or experiencing mood swings, this can be a sign of OSA.

6. Difficulty Concentrating and Memory Loss

Due to the poor quality of sleep caused by OSA, you may find it difficult to concentrate during the day and may experience memory loss.

7. High Blood Pressure

OSA can cause high blood pressure due to the stress placed on the body during episodes of interrupted breathing.

8. Overweight or Obesity

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing OSA due to the extra tissue in the throat that can obstruct the airway during sleep.

9. Family History of OSA

If there is a history of OSA in your family, this can increase your risk of developing the condition.

10. Male Gender and Advanced Age

Males and older individuals are at a higher risk of developing OSA.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these warning signs, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine whether OSA may be the cause.

Treatment options such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or oral appliances can help manage and alleviate OSA symptoms.