Published on: 6/12/2025
What are the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and how is it diagnosed?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes loud snoring, daytime tiredness, and breathing pauses during sleep. It is diagnosed using a sleep study, which monitors breathing and other body functions while you sleep.
Explanation
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep due to blocked airways. The main symptoms include loud snoring, feeling very tired during the day, and having pauses in breathing while sleeping. Some people may also experience morning headaches and trouble concentrating.
Diagnosis
OSA is usually diagnosed with a sleep study, also known as a polysomnography. This test records various body functions while you sleep, such as breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and heart rate. The results help doctors determine if you have OSA and how severe it is.
Key Symptoms
- Loud Snoring: Often noticed by a bed partner.
- Daytime Sleepiness: Feeling very tired or falling asleep during the day.
- Breathing Pauses: Gasping or choking sounds during sleep.
Understanding these symptoms and getting a proper diagnosis is important for managing OSA effectively. If you think you or someone you know might have OSA, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
(References)
- Patel SR. (2019). Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Annals of internal medicine, 31791057.
- Stansbury RC, & Strollo PJ. (2015). Clinical manifestations of sleep apnea. Journal of thoracic disease, 26543619.
- Prisant LM, Dillard TA, & Blanchard AR. (2006). Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Journal of clinical hypertension (Greenwich, Conn.), 17028491.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Learn more about diseases
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.