Why Sleep Apnea Is More Than Just Snoring
- ropheh
- Aug 20
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 28
Many people think of snoring as nothing more than an annoying nighttime habit. But in reality, snoring can sometimes be a sign of a serious medical condition called sleep apnea. At Naples Pulmonary, we often see patients who are surprised to learn that their restless nights and daytime fatigue are connected to something more than snoring.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much and block airflow. This can cause loud snoring, gasping, or choking sounds at night.
Why It Matters
Untreated sleep apnea is linked to more than poor sleep quality. It can have serious health consequences, including:
High blood pressure
Heart disease and stroke
Type 2 diabetes
Daytime fatigue and poor concentration
Increased risk of accidents
Over time, these risks can add up, making early diagnosis and treatment critical.
Signs You May Have Sleep Apnea
While not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, some key signs include:
Loud, chronic snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep (often noticed by a partner)
Waking up gasping for air
Morning headaches
Daytime sleepiness, even after a full night’s sleep
If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to schedule an evaluation.
How Sleep Apnea Is Treated
The good news is that sleep apnea is highly treatable. At Naples Pulmonary, we offer comprehensive diagnostic testing and treatment options, including:
Lifestyle modifications (such as weight management and sleep position changes)
CPAP therapy to keep airways open
Oral appliances for mild to moderate cases
Specialized treatments for patients who do not tolerate CPAP
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one struggles with loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or other symptoms of sleep apnea, don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment with Naples Pulmonary today to find answers and start sleeping better.
Naples Pulmonary | Pulmonary Medicine, Sleep Medicine, Internal Medicine, Concierge Care📍 Naples, Florida🌐 NaplesPulmonary.com
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