Symptoms-Part 2

Written by Fred McConnell

In part one of Sleep Apnea Symptoms, the telltale signs of sleep deprivation may not seem like that big of a deal. If you are too tired to drive, you can always take public transportation; a quick glass of water will instantly cure that morning dry mouth. But, when sleep deprivation can adversely affect your overall health, which can be potentially fatal, it is time to sit up and take notice. Sleep apnea is much more than an annoyance to your spouse every night; sleep apnea is much more than feel tired all of the time-though that is miserable enough; sleep apnea can cause debilitating illnesses and even death.

The Pressure is On

In business, pressure can be a great motivator, in order to get things done in a timely manner and go above and beyond the call of duty. But, when you are talking about blood, a high level of pressure is not a good thing. It is probably the main reason for heart attacks and strokes. So, what does this have to do with sleep apnea?

Under normal circumstances, your blood pressure naturally lowers during sleep. Your body actually slows down, in order to rest. But, if you have sleep apnea, and are constantly moving and waking in the night to improve oxygen intake, you blood pressure actually rises. In fact, your blood pressure first thing in the morning will likely be higher than other times during the day. Dangerous!

Call the Fire Department

Do you wake up in the morning and wish you could call 911 to have someone come put out the fire in your chest. You have a major case of heartburn almost every morning. Unfortunately, the process of trying to get enough oxygen all night long can create pressure and cause your stomach acids and food to back up into your esophagus. Ouch! You know have a major case of acid reflux! It hurts so bad that it would be nice if the fire department could put the flames out. As the acid builds up in your esophagus and your airways starts to collapse, it can lead to a choking feeling. Then, you end up gasping for breath.

If your esophagus is frequently “on fire”, it is more than simply painful. It can compromise you esophagus, cause ulcers, and make you more susceptible to esophageal cancer. Being tired all day is the least of your symptoms.

Get Me a Squeegee

As you continue to struggle for every other breath, you are wearing yourself down, even while you sleep. Do not be surprised, if you wake up in a pool of sweat. Night sweats can also be part of the deal. It can be very uncomfortable to wake up every night sticking to the sheets. But, as you can imagine, it is also hard on your body to go through this every night, instead of getting rest.

Skipping the Beat

If all of the other symptoms of sleep apnea have not started to worry you, it is time to sit up straight and pay attention. Your heart is at risk. You cannot live without your heart. As you struggle to breathe, it takes a toll on the old ticker. Sleep apnea can trigger an irregular heartbeat. As a consequence, the body may produce too many red blood cells that can ultimately lead to heart failure. To put it simply: you can die.

The graveyard is full of people who thought it would never happen to them. Are you willing to play the odds with your life? Do you want to do everything in your power to make sure you live to see your kids grow up and grow old with your spouse? Then, if you think you have sleep apnea, you know what to do.

Above your Heart

What is the first piece of advice you will get, if your legs are swollen. Of course, lie down or sit down, but get them above the level of your heart. But, what if you wake up in the morning, after a night in bed, and your legs are already swollen? Now what? Again, it is another symptom that might be related to sleep apnea. If your legs are often swollen, it is time to see the doctor. If your legs are often swollen, and you have some of the other symptoms as well, it is time to make sure you do not suffer from sleep apnea.

In conclusion, sleep apnea is not a simple sleep disorder that robs you of a good night’s rest. It can ultimately rob you of your life. You need to give your body a break. Get the help you need to provide your body with the oxygen necessary to survive. Do not settle for a life lived half asleep all of the time. Learn what to do, in order to have the first good night’s sleep you have had in ages.