Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/671350
Health Help By Deanne Winslett 26 // OWNER OPERATOR // MAY 2016 5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SLEEP APNEA A ccording to WASM, 4 percent of the U.S. adult population suffers from obstructive sleep apnea. In addition, sleep apnea is especially a problem for truck drivers. But what are the facts on sleep apnea? Here are five things to know about sleep apnea: 1 . What is obstructive sleep apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the upper throat muscles become too relaxed during sleep and restrict the airway. This can happen for 10 seconds to a minute or longer, according to WASM, and causes the blood's oxygen level to drop. 2 . What are the symptoms of sleep apnea? Nighttime symptoms of sleep apnea, according to Phillips Respironics, include: loud persistent snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing, restless sleep, frequent bathroom visits, and choking or gasping for air during sleep. Phillips Respironics says daytime