If you find yourself struggling with low energy during the day, it could be because you experience irregular sleep patterns at night - and you may not even realize it.
Sleep apnea affects millions of Americans, and yet as many as 90% of sufferers may remain undiagnosed or untreated. People with sleep apnea actually stop breathing for short periods of time when they're sleeping. The body then wakes itself just enough to gasp for air and continue breathing again. Because many people don't wake up fully when this happens, they may be completely unaware that they're not getting a good night's sleep. Because they aren't getting the benefit of a deep, consistent sleep, people with sleep apnea often wake up feeling tired and battle with low energy during the day.
Besides not feeling energized, sleep apnea can also lead to significant health problems. Sleep apnea can raise your blood pressure and put additional strain on your heart.
People who are overweight, older, smoke cigarettes, have chronic nasal congestion, drink alcohol, take sleeping pills, or suffer from diabetes are at risk for sleep apnea. If you have one or more of these risk factors and find yourself chronically tired, you may need to talk to your doctor about the possibility of sleep apnea. Your doctor may order a sleep study to help diagnose you.