Sleep Apnea Just Isn't a Man's Problem

Understanding Sleep Apnea in Women

Sleep apnea isn’t just a men’s health issue—it impacts women too. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, disrupting breathing and reducing oxygen flow to the body. This can lead to serious health risks, including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

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Why Women Are Often Undiagnosed

OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) is often misdiagnosed in women because the symptoms can be subtler. Studies show up to 90% of women with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed. While men may experience loud snoring and noticeable breathing pauses, women often report insomnia, fatigue, and mood disturbances like anxiety or depression.

Key Risk Factors for Women

Certain life stages and conditions increase the risk of sleep apnea:

Menopause: Hormonal changes can heighten vulnerability to OSA.
Pregnancy: Weight gain and hormonal fluctuations may contribute to your symptoms.
PCOS: Women with this condition face a higher risk of developing OSA.

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Common signs of OSA include:

-Morning headaches
-Restless sleep
-Frequent nighttime awakenings
-Daytime fatigue or brain fog