My Experience With Sleep Apnea

I always considered myself to be young (even at 50 years of age), vital, strong, care - free, and healthy. I never suspected that I would suffer from sleep apnea - obstructive sleep apnea, that is. And what I thought was macho and manly, was really a serious health issue! Yes, I'm talking about snoring - a sleeping disorder commonly associated with men, but one that affects women as well. Who knew women snore!?

Sure, my wife would get into a catty mood and threaten to sleep in a different bedroom if I didn't kill my snore, but I never considered its severity. Not that I didn't care, I just figured she was joking around with her women friends because I certainly joked about it with my friends. "Who among us men doesn't snore?" I'd playfully ask. "Real men snore! Right?"

Wrong! Snoring is a form of obstructive apnea and it's just one result of not getting proper oxygen during sleep. And if I think about it, it might explain why I experience so much fatigue or why I'm in a funky mood a lot of the time. At my age, I figured I have entitlement to privacy and a 'certain' mood (if you catch my drift.)

Well here I am in my doctor's office for a diagnosis. I'm getting my weight checked, as I've discovered being overweight contributes to obstructive apnea. I've also discovered that my oxygen intake is another factor, which means that I'll probably get a prescription for an oxygen cpap machine to help me breathe at night. Think I care now? You bet I care! I don't know about you, but oxygen is pretty darned important to me.

About The Author:
Nicole Miller is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.sleep-disorders-help.com.

See Also: Sleep Apnea Learning Difficulties