Obstructive Sleep Apnea Effects Not Only Men But Also Women! Here Are Symptoms Of OSA To Look Out For

After the demise of singer Lata Mangeshkar, the nation was shaken when the news of Bappi Lahiri’s passing came forth. The legendary singer-composer was 69 when he passed away in his sleep. He had been suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and chest infection. While we all mourn this great loss, I believe this is a good opportunity to educate yourself about OSA. After all, caring for our health must be a priority. From whatever I was able to see, the general belief and consensus are that OSA is a strictly men’s illness and something women don’t need to worry about. False! Women are just as likely to suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea as men. However, we tend to show different symptoms as compared to men and this results in women usually being misdiagnosed. So allow me to make this process easier for you as I tell you possible ways to detect it within you women at an early stage,

So, What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a breathing disorder that is sleeping-related. The upper airway’s constant collapse while sleeping causes it. When the muscles which support the soft tissues such as the tongue and soft palate relax and block the airway, OSA occurs. 

Detecting OSA In Women

Studies have shown that OSA has an estimated ratio of males to females of between  3 : 1 and 5 : 1. However, data does show that more men than women tend to be susceptible to the illness. However, that doesn’t mean women should sleep on this (see what I did there?) and not educate themselves about the illness.
Hence, here are a few OSA symptoms women can look out for:

– Insomnia

– Restlessness in their legs

– Tiredness or fatigue

– Depression

– Sleepiness

– Lack of energy

– Dry mouth on awakening

– A sense of being overwhelmed

– High blood pressure that is difficult to control

– Obesity

– Menopause (not a symptom but a cause)

Also Read: How To Ease Menopause Symptoms? Listen To Music, Says Study

How To Avoid Misdiagnosis?

Now, considering how common it is for women to be incorrectly diagnosed for OSA, these are some pointers that can help avoid that,

– Keep an eye out for your symptoms and get them checked as soon as you detect them.

– Get yourself checked by a sleep physician who specializes in OSA to get you the best diagnosis. 

Treatment for OSA

Usually, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are prescribed. However, if you have mild-to-moderate OSA, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, also known as AASM (which sets standards for sleep physicians) has released new guidelines which recommend that sleep physicians consider prescribing an oral device. This is an alternative for no treatment for adult patients with OSA who might be intolerant to CPAP therapy or would prefer alternate treatment methods.

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