Tip 22: Get Checked for Sleep Apnea

Do you snore?  Does your partner say you snore or stop breathing while you are sleeping?  You may have sleep apnea.  Sleep apnea is an important medical problem that is easily diagnosed with a sleep study.  Sleep apnea has been associated with an increased risk for heart disease, atrial fibrillation (an arrhythmia which can lead to stroke), pulmonary hypertension, depression, mood instability, and memory loss.  An estimated 20 to 30% of the population may have this problem.  If you think you might have sleep apnea, tell your doctor and get a sleep study.