Sleep apnea is often mischaracterized as a condition affecting only men, causing many women to overlook their symptoms. The signs can be subtle and easily mistaken for stress or hormonal changes. Recognizing these unique indicators is the first step toward better sleep and improved overall health. Here are four often-missed sleep apnea symptoms in women.
Sleep Apnea in Women: 4 Overlooked Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
Persistent Fatigue and Daytime Drowsiness
For many women juggling careers, family, and personal responsibilities, feeling tired seems normal. However, the profound, persistent fatigue caused by sleep apnea is different. If you feel exhausted despite getting a full night's sleep or find yourself drowsy during the day, it could be your body signaling that your sleep is being repeatedly disrupted overnight.
Mood Swings, Anxiety, or Depression
Disrupted sleep significantly impacts your brain's ability to regulate emotions. The repeated oxygen deprivation from sleep apnea can contribute to feelings of anxiety, irritability, or even depression. If you're experiencing mood changes that you can't otherwise explain, it's worth considering whether a sleep disorder might be the underlying cause affecting your mental well-being.
Frequent Morning Headaches
Waking up with a headache is a classic yet frequently dismissed sign of sleep apnea. During an apneic event, oxygen levels in your brain dip, causing blood vessels to widen. This process can lead to dull, throbbing headaches upon waking. Don't just attribute it to stress; it could be a direct result of poor sleep quality.
Insomnia and Restless Nights
While snoring is a hallmark symptom, many women with sleep apnea don't snore loudly. Instead, they may experience insomnia, finding it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night. This restlessness, along with symptoms like Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), can be a primary indicator that your breathing is being interrupted as you sleep.
Reach Out Today
Don't let these symptoms go undiagnosed. Acknowledging that sleep apnea presents differently in women is crucial for your long-term health. If any of these signs sound familiar, it's time to seek a professional evaluation. Contact the experts at Sleep Center of Colorado to find answers and begin your journey toward restful, restorative sleep.