As sleep specialists, we know obstructive sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed in women despite prevalence rates nearing men’s according to epidemiological studies.

Let’s raise awareness of this condition’s female presentation and the importance of screening, says our Clinical Director Dr. Khan at Snoring and Sleep Solutions of Nevada.

Quieter snoring misleads many women that gasping breathing cessations occurring as throat muscles collapse during sleep pose no threat.

However, repetitive oxygen dips strain the cardiovascular system and damage cells throughout tissues over time predisposing to stroke and heart attacks.

Daytime drowsiness mistaken for laziness can signify serious breathing disruptions disrupting focus, mood, and relationships. Headaches upon waking likely result from nocturnal blood pressure surges as airways struggle to open.

Changes in sleeping position rarely alleviate symptoms as apnea stems from compromised upper airway tone not just posture.

Excessive weight concentrated around the neck magnifies apnea risk more so in women due to genetic predispositions like smaller airways.