Sleep Apnea Can Cause Repeated Awakenings
One condition that deserves particular attention is obstructive sleep apnea.
People with sleep apnea can experience repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep.
They may snore loudly, gasp or choke during sleep, wake with a dry mouth, experience morning headaches, or feel excessively tired during the day.
Some people don’t realize that their sleep is being interrupted repeatedly because they don’t fully wake each time.
If someone tells you that you stop breathing, gasp, or choke during sleep—or if you experience significant daytime sleepiness—talk to a healthcare professional.
Sleep apnea can be evaluated and treated.
The important point is that the diagnosis is based on symptoms and appropriate evaluation, not simply on waking at 3 or 4 a.m.
What About Depression?
Sleep and mood are closely connected.
Depression can affect sleep in different ways.
Some people sleep more than usual, while others experience difficulty staying asleep or wake earlier than they want.
