One of the most common signs of obstructive sleep apnea is loud and chronic (ongoing) snoring. Pauses may occur in the snoring. Choking or gasping may follow the pauses.

The snoring usually is loudest when you sleep on our back; it might be less noise when you turn on our side. You’re asleep when the snoring or gasping happens. You likely won’t know that you’re having problems breathing or be able to judge how sever the problem is. A family member or bed partner often will notice these problems before you do.

Another common sign of sleep apnea is fighting sleepiness during the day, at work, or while driving. You may find yourself rapidly falling asleep during the quiet moments of the day when you’re not active. Even if you don’t have daytime sleepiness, talk with your doctor if you have problems breathing during sleep. Others signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Episodes of breathing cessation during sleep witnessed by another person
• Memory or learning problems and not be able to concentrate
• Feeling irritable, depressed, or having mood swings or personality changes
• Waking up frequently to urinate
• Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Morning headache