Can I Have Sleep Apnea Without Snoring?

When one thinks of sleep apnea, the image that often comes to mind is someone snoring loudly. However, not everyone with sleep apnea snores. In fact, it's entirely possible to have sleep apnea without snoring at all. In this blog post, we'll explore the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, the relationship between sleep apnea and snoring, and why it's crucial to get evaluated if you suspect you may have this common sleep disorder.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This condition can lead to a variety of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and cognitive problems. It's also associated with excessive daytime sleepiness, which can affect your performance at work or school and increase your risk of accidents.

There are two main types of sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea, the more common form that occurs when throat muscles relax, and central sleep apnea, which occurs when your brain doesn't send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Regardless of the type, it's crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect you have sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Without Snoring: Is It Possible?

While snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and not everyone with sleep apnea snores. Some people with sleep apnea may have what's known as "silent" sleep apnea. This is where they experience episodes of interrupted breathing without making any noise.

Silent sleep apnea can be particularly dangerous because it often goes undiagnosed. People may not realize they have a problem because they don't fit the stereotypical image of a sleep apnea sufferer. However, there are other symptoms to watch out for, such as excessive daytime sleepiness, waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat, morning headache, difficulty concentrating, and experiencing mood changes such as depression or irritability.

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it's important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional. They may recommend a sleep study, which involves monitoring your breathing and other body functions while you sleep. This can help determine whether you have sleep apnea and how severe it is.

It's also important to remember that sleep apnea can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. While it's more common in older adults and people who are overweight, sleep apnea can also affect children and people who are at a healthy weight.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

Treatment for sleep apnea often involves lifestyle changes, such as losing weight if you're overweight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and certain medications. For some people, using a device to keep their airway open while they sleep may help. This could be a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, or an oral appliance provided by a dentist. In severe cases, surgery may be an option.

Remember, even if you don't snore, if you're experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it's important to get evaluated. The sooner you're diagnosed, the sooner you can start treatment and improve your quality of life.

Get Evaluated for Sleep Apnea in San Antonio, TX

If you're experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, don't hesitate to reach out. At Solana Orthodontics, Dr. Sandra Nairooz is experienced in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. Remember, it's possible to have sleep apnea without snoring. Don't let a lack of noise keep you from seeking the treatment you need. Call us today at (210) 905-9000 or request an appointment online to start your journey towards better sleep and better health.