Q&A: What are the signs of sleep apnea and is it hereditary?

by larryosan

Question by Ashely Corner: What are the signs of sleep apnea and is it hereditary? I asked a question yesterday about me waking up 3 times in a state of panic needing air. Someone brought up sleep apnea. My dad has sleep apnea. What are the signs of sleep apnea and is it hereditary?

Best answer:

Answer by Richard
there is some heredity to it especially if being overweight is in the genetics. 80-90% of people with OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) are obese so that is a risk factor. Snoring loudly is also a risk factor. Waking up with awareness you just awoke is usually NOT a symptom as most sleep apneics never realize they wake up 20-80 times per hour due to stopping breathing. The main symptoms of OSA are being excessively fatigued throughout the day, wanting naps, falling asleep during quiet times like watching tv, reading a book, riding or driving a car and having headaches when you first wake up. See your doctor if any of this sounds like you. A really good clue if you stop breathing at night is ask your bed partner, or roommate if they ever notice you stopping breathing while you sleep. If so, ask you doc to set up a polysomnogram or sleep study. good luck

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