Who are most affected by sleep apnea? Men are more likely to suffer from it than women. People over the age of forty show an increased likelihood of having sleep apnea. This doesn’t mean that other age groups aren’t affected. Sleep apnea can occur in children and young adults as well.

Lack of proper rest such as that which occurs with sleep apnea affects all other areas of your life. The body doesn’t get enough time to restore itself, and that can lead to diseases and other conditions manifesting themselves in your body. For instance, it is not uncommon for sleep apnea patients to develop high blood pressure and symptoms of cardiovascular diseases.

The brain is also affected by poor sleep patterns. It becomes harder to remember even the smallest things, or to concentrate on detailed tasks or even perform routine functions at work. As a result, stress levels increase and tempers get shorter. Performance on the job and at home is impaired. Undiagnosed, sleep apnea symptoms worsen to the point where chronic fatigue and a host of other health problems can set it.

On the positive side, sleep apnea can be treated in a number of ways. But your first step is to find out of you have sleep apnea. Make an appointment with your doctor to be tested to see if sleep apnea is your primary issue causing whatever symptoms you have been experiencing. The doctor will take a detailed history of the symptoms you have been suffering.

If there is sufficient cause, you will be asked to participate in a sleep study. A sleep study is the primary diagnostic tool for sleep apnea. At a sleep center, you are placed in a room and hooked up to machines that monitor several aspects of your sleep pattern.

Sleep apnea is a serious but treatable condition. If you or someone you know has experienced sleep issues, see a doctor and get tested, so that you can soon be on your way to a more restful sleep and a more well-rested and active and efficient you.