While symptoms of sleep apnea appear to be different in men than women, it is still a condition that is associated with equally serious health consequences for everyone. In a study conducted by UCLA, women were less likely than men to be diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
It also found that women with sleep apnea are more profoundly affected in the areas of the brain that regulate mood and decision-making. When it comes to OSA, men and women often experience varying symptoms.
Here is a closer look at snoring and sleep apnea in women and men, and how sleep issues may differ based upon your gender.
Hormonal differences. It is important to note the overarching distinctions in sleep patterns between men and women starting with hormonal differences. In part, hormonal differences appear to play a role in distinctions in sleep patterns, while anatomical differences also play a role in this area.
Sleep cycles. Women are more likely than men to experience insomnia, depression and daytime fatigue. Additionally, women benefit from more deep sleep than men do. And, because women’s circadian cycles typically run slightly shorter than men’s, women tend to fall asleep and wake up earlier. Women and men also deal with sleep deprivation differently.
Snoring. However, one area that men and women don’t really differ from each other in is snoring. Both men and women snore, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Chronic snoring, unfortunately, can often be an indicator of sleep apnea. Men often report symptoms such as snoring, waking up gasping for air or snorting, and many women report symptoms of fatigue, anxiety and depression. Some women might also experience shortness of breath and snoring, too, but in many cases, the telltale signs of sleep apnea in women is not as obvious as it is in men.
Description of symptoms. Lastly, the fact that men are twice as likely than women to be diagnosed with sleep apnea may be partially attributed to how women describe their symptoms because it can often be mistaken for depression, hypertension, hypochondria or other disorders.
There are many factors that contribute to sleep apnea and treatment will vary based on the individual. It is important to note that women of all ages can suffer from this disorder, but the best way to find out if you are at risk is to speak with a sleep physician.
If you think you might be suffering from sleep apnea in New Jersey, contact Dr. Sunita Merriman for more information.