Sleep apnea, a condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, is often considered a men’s health issue, but it significantly impacts women too – and is frequently undiagnosed in them. This can have dangerous consequences for overall health.
Approximately 3 percent of women between the ages of 30 and 60 are affected by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Doctors define the condition as pauses in breathing lasting at least 10 seconds. The number of women diagnosed with the condition rises considerably after menopause, according to experts.
Women with obesity, structural abnormalities in the jaw and upper airway, and a stocky build are at increased risk. Alcohol consumption can also worsen symptoms.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
The most noticeable symptom of sleep apnea is loud, irregular snoring during the night. If a partner also observes pauses in breathing and the individual experiences excessive daytime sleepiness, these are further indicators of the condition. These breathing interruptions lead to a dangerous drop in blood oxygen levels, accompanied by a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure.
The brain’s respiratory center responds by briefly waking the person (known as “arousals”). Other symptoms can include:
- Night sweats
- Frequent urination
- Sudden awakenings with a racing heart and shortness of breath
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- High blood pressure (which may be difficult to control)
Women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia).
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, an ambulatory study (polysomnography) or a sleep lab test can determine if your breathing is disrupted during sleep. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the condition and preventing potential health complications.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
If sleep apnea is suspected, a polysomnography is typically performed using a small, portable device.
Sleep disturbances are a common complaint among women experiencing menopause, alongside hot flashes, mood swings, and joint pain. Approximately 50 percent of women in midlife report sleep problems potentially linked to the menopausal transition. Around 20 percent of women develop sleep apnea during this time, according to research.
Hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen and progesterone, are thought to play a significant role in these sleep disturbances. The more rapid the drop in estrogen levels, the more severe the menopausal symptoms, including sleep problems, tend to be. Factors like age-related changes in sleep patterns, stress, and poor sleep hygiene can also contribute.
The increasing recognition of sleep apnea in women highlights the importance of considering this condition in women presenting with sleep-related symptoms, especially during and after menopause.
