Am I at risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

It is estimated that there are 3.5 to 4 million over the road truck drivers in the United States today. A recent study by the FMCSA reports that over 28% of all truckers have some form of Sleep Apnea.

The most common risk factor for sleep apnea is being overweight. Over half of American adults who have sleep apnea are overweight.

Sleep apnea is more common in men.

Sleep apnea becomes more common as you get older. At least 1 out of 10 people over the age of 65 has sleep apnea. Women are much more likely to develop sleep apnea after menopause.

African Americans, Hispanics, and Pacific Islanders are more likely to develop sleep apnea than Caucasians.

If someone in your family has sleep apnea, you're more likely to develop it.

People who have small airways in their noses, throats, or mouths also are more likely to have sleep apnea. Smaller airways may be due to the shape of these structures or allergies or other medical conditions that cause congestion in these areas.

Other risk factors for sleep apnea include smoking, high blood pressure, and risk factors for stroke or heart failure. (National Heart Lung and Blood Institute)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

One of the most common signs of obstructive sleep apnea is loud and chronic (ongoing) snoring. Pauses may occur in the snoring. Choking or gasping may follow the pauses.

The snoring usually is loudest when you sleep on your back; it may be less noisy when you turn on your side. Snoring may not happen every night. Over time, the snoring may happen more often and get louder.

You're asleep when the snoring or gasping occurs. You will likely not know that you're having problems breathing or be able to judge how severe the problem is. Your family members or bed partner will often notice these problems before you do.

Another common sign of sleep apnea is fighting sleepiness during the day, at work, or while driving. You may find yourself rapidly falling asleep during the quiet moments of the day when you're not active.