Extremely loud snoring may be a symptom of a much more serious condition called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can be life threatening of left untreated so it is important that you become familiar with the signs if you think you may be afflicted. Snoring is one of the indicators, but there are others you can watch for too.

There is more than one type of sleep disorder a person may have, each caused by something different. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by blocking the airway somehow when you are sleeping. Central sleep apnea is characterized by the part of the brain that controls your breathing not working the way it should. Both can be treated by a doctor or specialist.

Sleep apnea is most prominent in middle-aged men, but it is important to understand that it can afflict both men and women of all ages. Symptoms can come on at any time. In fact, children today are more frequently exhibiting signs of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea sufferers will commonly have one or more of the following symptoms:

1. Very loud snoring that wakes you or your partner.

2. Headaches which usually occur during the morning.

3. Constant feelings of sleepiness during the day, known as hypersomnia.

4. Difficulty staying asleep at night.

5. Short episodes of not breathing during sleep.

6. Sore throat or dry mouth on waking.

7. Irritability.

8. Concentration, learning or behavior problems.

9. Hypertension.

10. Hyperactivity in children (ADHD).

While the patient is aware that they are sleepy all the time they do not know that it is because they are suffering from sleep apnea. Because they are asleep, they often need to be told by their partner that they are exhibiting the symptoms.

When a sleep apnea sufferer stops breathing his or her body is not getting the oxygen it desperately needs. This leads to an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. For this reason sleep apnea is very serious and should not be taken lightly. If you are exhibiting the symptoms and think you might be afflicted then you should consult with your doctor right away.