7 Surprising Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (It’s Not Just About Snoring!)

When most people think of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), loud snoring is the first symptom that comes to mind. That makes sense, since snoring is common in OSA.

However, it’s far from the only sign. In fact, many patients with sleep apnea don’t snore at all, or their snoring goes unnoticed.

Because untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and atrial fibrillation (arrhythmia), recognizing the less obvious warning signs is critical.

Philip T. Ho, MD, FACS, and his team at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center in Los Gatos, California, often see patients who are surprised to learn that their symptoms point to sleep apnea.

Here are some of the unexpected signs of obstructive sleep apnea that Dr. Ho and his team think you should know about.

1. Morning headaches

Waking up with headaches isn’t just frustrating; it may be linked to poor oxygen levels during the night. OSA reduces airflow, decreasing the oxygen your brain receives. This can lead to morning headaches that tend to resolve once you’re awake and breathing normally again.

2. Dry mouth or sore throat

If you often wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat, you may be breathing through your mouth at night because of OSA. Over time, this can lead to irritation, bad breath, and dental problems.

3. Nighttime bathroom trips

Do you find yourself waking up to use the restroom multiple times per night? This condition, known as nocturia, can actually be triggered by sleep apnea.

Studies show that interrupted breathing causes changes in blood flow and hormone levels, leading to increased nighttime urination.

4. Mood changes and irritability

Poor sleep quality doesn’t just make you tired; it can also impact your emotional well-being. Many sleep apnea patients experience irritability, anxiety, or depression because their brains aren’t getting the restorative rest needed to regulate mood.

5. Difficulty concentrating or memory problems

If you’ve been feeling foggy or forgetful, sleep apnea could be to blame. Interrupted sleep reduces your brain’s ability to consolidate memories and focus on tasks, often leading to decreased productivity at work or school.

6. Grinding or clenching teeth at night

Also known as bruxism, nighttime teeth grinding is sometimes linked to airway obstruction. Your jaw may clench in an attempt to clear the obstructed airway during apneic events. Over time, this can cause worn teeth, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.

7. Restless sleep

If your partner notices that you thrash around in bed or seem to sleep restlessly, your body may be struggling to breathe. These movements are often subconscious attempts to reposition and open the airway.

Could it be sleep apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring; it’s a complex condition with many signs, some of which may be surprising. The good news? It’s highly treatable.

Your evaluation at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center may include a sleep study and a personalized treatment plan that could involve lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, oral appliances, or minimally invasive surgical options.

Don’t ignore the subtle symptoms of sleep apnea. Take steps toward better sleep, improved health, and more energy during the day.

Schedule a visit with Dr. Ho today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.