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What Causes Difficulty Breathing While Sleeping?
Posted on
Tue, 23 Aug 2016
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Tue, 23 Aug 2016
Answered on
Thu, 8 Sep 2016
Last reviewed on
Question : Over the last few months I have noticed when I sleep on my back (mostly for quick nap), I wake up gasping for oxygen. Today (I work at a desk), I feel a little short on oxygen so I am a little light headed. Are these related, and what should I do?
Brief Answer:
Sleep apnea
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns
I am sorry to hear that you are having difficulty breathing while sleep. YOur symptoms are suggestive of sleep apnea. While laying on your back your airway is closing stopping your breathing. This wakes you because you are not getting enough oxygen. This break down in sleep will cause daytime sleepiness to the point of falling asleep at work. I would recommend seeing your medical provider and setting you up for a sleep study. Once the sleep study is complete appropriate treatment can be initiated.
I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again if you have any additional questions
Sleep apnea
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns
I am sorry to hear that you are having difficulty breathing while sleep. YOur symptoms are suggestive of sleep apnea. While laying on your back your airway is closing stopping your breathing. This wakes you because you are not getting enough oxygen. This break down in sleep will cause daytime sleepiness to the point of falling asleep at work. I would recommend seeing your medical provider and setting you up for a sleep study. Once the sleep study is complete appropriate treatment can be initiated.
I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again if you have any additional questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you, Dr. Is the onset of this possible condition related to age? I am not overweight, or large in any sense (5'7", 150 lbs). But, when I sleep on my side I do not have this issue. The similar feeling I had earlier (= lack of oxygen, much better now) is something new, however. I happen to have an annual physical scheduled for September 29th, would you recommend I report this condition in order to be seen sooner? Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Sleep apnea
Detailed Answer:
Sleep apnea is usually associated with being overweight but not all patients are overweight. The blockage may occur from the tongue dropping into the back of the throat and obstructing the airway. It is not associated with age either. I would wait until you see your medical provider for your physical. Sleep apnea is a chronic condition and you can wait until your physical in September
Sleep apnea
Detailed Answer:
Sleep apnea is usually associated with being overweight but not all patients are overweight. The blockage may occur from the tongue dropping into the back of the throat and obstructing the airway. It is not associated with age either. I would wait until you see your medical provider for your physical. Sleep apnea is a chronic condition and you can wait until your physical in September
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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