be dead in a short time,” says Maxwell Ivey, LTD, a blind blogger who was diagnosed with sleep apnea.
Ivey was able to decrease his symptoms of sleep apnea after having gastric surgery, losing 250 pounds and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
4. Loud and chronic snoring
Your significant other or family member may joke about wanting to sleep in a separate room because you snore too loudly. But, loud and chronic snoring is no laughing matter, as it could be a sign of sleep apnea.
According to Dr. Larry Goldfarb, DC, CSSP and owner of Medical Wellness Center of NJ, having a neck circumference bigger than 17” for men and 16” for women increases your risk of developing sleep apnea. The extra weight increases fat tissue, especially around the base of the tongue and airway lining, which is the leading cause of snoring especially for back sleepers.
It’s important to note that not everyone who snores has sleep apnea.
5. Choking and gasping for air
Choking and gasping for air during sleep is another common symptom of sleep apnea. This usually happens after a breathing cessation, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
It’s important to mention that those who have sleep apnea experience a rise in blood pressure while sleeping. Sleeping can be monitored with self-assessments, like Novasom. However, for more accurate test results, you should contact your medical provider to schedule a sleep test.