could it be sleep apnea? - Sleep Disorders Message Board

eveningsun · 05-02-2007, 01:08 AM

Hi,
So, I'm up at 3am because I had a very unsettling, even disturbing incident. It's happened a few times before, but this time I freaked out and can't go back to sleep. So, here's how it goes:
Right as I'm falling asleep I kind of get this jolt and I realize I haven't been breathing (I think for a good 30-40 secs) When it happens it's not like I'm awake and trying to fall asleep. it's like during those few minutes when you're practically in dreamland, minutes that I probably wouldn't even remember in the morning if I actually got to sleep. anyway, it's happened a few times before tonight, but this one got me all panicky, i think b/c when I woke up not only was i not breathing but my jaws were clenched reallyy tight. I was wondering if this could be sleep apnea? I looked at the symptoms and some fit--daytime fatigue, constantly feeling like you got no sleep, memory/concentration problems, but those also seem like typical teenage issues (i'm 17, female). Oh, and I also don't snore. Any ideas? Should I get it checked out or could it just be anxiety?

mkgbrook · 05-02-2007, 09:00 AM

The fact you are catching yourself not breathing and waking as you are indicates high probablity that it is obstructive sleep apnea. Definitely get yourself checked out by a ABSM (American Board of Sleep Medicine) certified sleep specialist. You do not have to snore to have sleep apnea.

Anxiety is a sign of sleep apnea induced sleep deprivation, but it can be there on its own. Look into talking with a good friend your parents, a school counsulor, anyone you trust to help relieve pressure and aide in relieving that anxiety.. but sleep apnea is very serious and if there is a possibility you need to get it diagnosised and treated ASAP.

The sleep MD will be able to help you find what you need to do.

Question with regards to your statement?
Right as I'm falling asleep I kind of get this jolt and I realize I haven't been breathing (I think for a good 30-40 secs)
Do you literally jolt awake like you are trying to catch yourself from a fall or are you suddenly awake and unable to move for that 30-40 second interval? If you can not move.. you may also be looking at sleep paralysis in addition to sleep apnea. It is another side effect. It also can indicate a different sleeping disorder. Nothing horrible or to stress over just different.

Sincerely,
MG

eveningsun · 05-02-2007, 09:42 AM

Hi, thanks for the response, I'll be sure to get it checked out. My body doesn't actually jolt, but I don't think it's paralysed temporarily either. However, last night I noticed that when I woke up my jaw was clenched shut and it seemed to take a few seconds for me to actually unclench and open my mouth. Could sleep paralysis only occur in one area, like the jaw/mouth?

mkgbrook · 05-02-2007, 10:19 AM

No. The jaw clenching is a sign of Bruxism.. grinding of the teeth that can lead to TMJ if not cured.. Bruxism is also a side effect or symptom of sleep apnea. Often a personalized mouth piece made for you can fix that jaw clenching and teeth grinding.. the sleep specialist will know the best placce to go and get that.

Sincerely,
MG