Is It Possible to Have Sleep Apnea Without Snoring?

Snoring is an extremely common symptom of sleep apnea. In fact, it’s so ubiquitous that many people think it’s impossible to have sleep apnea if they don’t snore. However, it is possible to have the condition without loud or disruptive snoring during sleep.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which patients experience at least five pauses in their breathing each hour they are asleep. It may also cause choking or gasping for air during sleep. The condition can lead to serious health problems, including type 2 diabetes, liver disease, high blood pressure, and heart disease.  

What are the types of apnea?

While snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, it is only associated with obstructive sleep apnea. This condition is caused by the muscles in the back of your throat relaxing too much while you sleep, causing a blocked airway. Central sleep apnea, however, is caused by brain chemical dysfunction. If you’re affected by central sleep apnea, your brain fails to signal to your breathing muscles that they need to keep working.

What are some other symptoms of sleep apnea?

Symptoms of sleep apnea include insomnia, persistent morning headaches, dry mouth, increased irritability, daytime sleepiness (also known as hypersomnia), and difficulty focusing throughout your waking hours. Sleep apnea can only be properly diagnosed via a sleep study, so be sure to visit your doctor if you think you may have a sleep disorder.

If you are struggling with obstructive sleep apnea, the dental office of Dr. John Carson in Tucson, AZ can help. Dr. Carson is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, and he has helped countless patients take control of their sleep apnea. To schedule an appointment, call (520) 514-7203 or send us a message here.