Identifying Sleep Apnoea Symptoms

Sleep apnoea occurs when breathing is interrupted during sleep, often accompanying snoring. While snoring is commonly associated with sleep apnoea, identifying less common warning signs can be challenging. This blog post aims to shed light on additional symptoms that may indicate sleep apnoea, helping individuals recognise potential issues. Please read our companion blog post – Top 10 Causes of Sleep Apnoea – for more background understanding.

 Identifying Sleep Apnoea Symptoms:

 Night time Symptoms:

1. Snoring: A common indicator.
2. Night Sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep.
3. Frequent Urination: Disrupted sleep can lead to increased bathroom visits.
4. Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Daytime Symptoms:

1. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness during waking hours.
2. Morning Headaches: Waking up with headaches.
3. Daytime Sleepiness: Feeling excessively sleepy during the day.
4. Depressed Mood: Emotional changes related to sleep disruption.
5. Decreased Libido and/or Sexual Dysfunction: Impact on intimate relationships.

Seeking Help for Sleep Apnoea: 

If you suspect sleep apnoea, consider the following steps:

1. Online Sleep Assessment: Take our quick 2-minute online sleep assessment to gauge the likelihood of having the disorder.
2. Consult a Specialist: If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional or specialist for further evaluation.
3. Diagnostic Process: Healthcare professionals may use questionnaires and discussions initially. If necessary, they may recommend a non-invasive sleep test, something that our team here at Clonmel Sleep Clinic can carry out.

Testing and Diagnosis: 

1. Screening: Initial assessments involve discussions and questionnaires.
2. Sleep Test: Non-invasive overnight testing tracks vital signs like blood oxygen levels, pulse, brain waves, and eye movements.
3. Results Analysis: A sleep consultant reviews the collected data to provide a diagnosis, which may include sleep apnoea or other sleep-related conditions.

Taking the First Step:

Diagnosis is crucial for finding an effective solution. Embrace the process and seek information from healthcare professionals, specialists, and online assessments. If symptoms persist, consider undergoing a sleep test for a comprehensive evaluation. Taking these steps will pave the way towards managing and improving your sleep health. For more information, please call us on 052 614 6240 or complete the contact us form at the bottom of this page.