Do I Have Sleep Apnea or Something Else?
February 15, 2023 8:00 amIt can be easy to know when certain factors are causing your tiredness, like loud neighbors, a crying baby, or an uncomfortable bed. It can be more difficult, however, to pinpoint if medical issues or lifestyle choices are causing your chronic exhaustion.
We recommend that patients struggling with excessive tiredness seek professional help, as talking through your symptoms with a sleep specialist can give you an accurate diagnosis and allow you to start on the right treatment plan.
Common Causes of Tiredness
Feeling chronically fatigued can be associated with many factors, including:
- Pregnancy
- Being parents of a newborn
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Being overweight or underweight
- Certain medications
- Consuming too much alcohol or caffeine
- Excessive or not enough exercise
- Stress, anxiety & depression
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Autoimmune disorders
- Sleep disorders
Does Snoring Mean I Have Sleep Apnea?
Snoring and sleep apnea can be related. Have a friend or family member take note of whether your snoring is consistent or if there are long periods of silence between snores. If you wake up choking or gasping for air, that is also a sign that you could have sleep apnea.
A sleep study can provide you and your doctor with the data necessary to determine whether or not you have sleep apnea. But if you believe your tiredness has more to do with your diet, exercise, medications, or other medical issues, it may be beneficial to consult with your primary care physician first.
Get Relief at RespAir Sleep!
Our team at RespAir Sleep offers a variety of services to treat disordered sleep. We offer free virtual and in-person consultations, and can also help you get scheduled for a sleep test with a physician if you haven’t already connected with a sleep doctor. Please contact our office today to learn more about our sleep medicine services!
Categorised in: Sleep FAQ
