1 in 3 People Don’t Know They Have This Sleep Condition – Here’s How to Spot the Signs
Sleep apnea is a serious but often overlooked condition that affects around 8 million people in the UK, and worryingly, 1 in 3 of those are undiagnosed1.
One of the most common signs is loud, persistent snoring, often with gasping or choking during the night. These breathing interruptions stop you from reaching deep, restorative sleep, which can leave you feeling constantly drained.
Martin Seeley, Senior Sleep Expert at MattressNextDay warns “If you find yourself nodding off while watching TV, reading, or even stuck in traffic, it could be a sign of something more,” Martin says. “The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a quick questionnaire that helps you assess just how tired you are in everyday situations and whether it’s time to speak to a doctor.”
Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes, and can even affect your mental wellbeing.
“The good news is that once diagnosed, sleep apnea is very manageable and many people notice a huge improvement in their energy and quality of life,” Martin adds.
To help manage symptoms of sleep apnea at home, Martin shares a few expert approved tips:
- Sleep on your side
“Back sleeping can cause your tongue and soft tissues to collapse into your airway, worsening symptoms. Try sleeping on your side instead and use a supportive pillow to maintain that position.”
- Keep your bedroom cool and dark
“Overheating at night can disrupt your sleep quality, especially if you’re already prone to breathing difficulties. Aim to keep your room at a steady, cool temperature and reduce light exposure to encourage deeper sleep.”
- Avoid alcohol before bed
“Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat, increasing the likelihood of airway collapse during sleep. If you’re prone to sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, it’s best to avoid drinking in the hours before bed.”
- Maintain a healthy weight
“Extra weight, particularly around the neck, can put pressure on your airway and increase the severity of sleep apnea symptoms. Losing just a small amount of weight can sometimes lead to big improvements in sleep quality.”
- Invest in a supportive mattress
“The position and support your mattress offers can significantly impact your breathing at night. A medium firm mattress that supports spinal alignment and reduces pressure points may help to improve airflow and reduce disturbances.”
“Most importantly, don’t ignore the warning signs,” says Seeley. “If you wake up feeling exhausted despite a full night in bed, or your partner notices you snore loudly and stop breathing during the night, seek professional advice. Sleep apnea isn’t just snoring, it’s a serious health issue that deserves attention.”
Sleep Magazine is your trusted UK guide to help you get better sleep and wake feeling truly refreshed.
