Many misconceptions about sleep apnea prevent people from recognizing its symptoms and seeking treatment. Below, we debunk five of the most common myths about sleep apnea to help you separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Sleep apnea is caused primarily by obesity.

Obesity is a well-known risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as excess fatty tissue around the throat can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep.¹ However, weight is not the only factor that leads to sleep apnea. Structural issues, such as a naturally narrow airway, enlarged tonsils or nasal congestion or a misaligned jaw, can also increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea.² Even individuals with a healthy weight can have the condition if they have other anatomical or genetic predispositions.

Myth 2: Snoring means you have sleep apnea.

Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, but not everyone who snores has the condition. Simple snoring is caused by vibrations in the soft tissues of the throat and does not always indicate airway obstruction. However, snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, especially when combined with any of the following symptoms: excessive daytime sleepiness, gasping or choking at night, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, restless sleep, high blood pressure, chest pain at night, sore throat after waking up, witnessing breathing pauses during sleep and snoring so loud that it’s disrupting your partner’s sleep.³ To determine whether snoring is linked to a sleep disorder, a sleep study (polysomnography) or a home sleep apnea test is recommended.

Myth 3: If you feel rested, you’re definitely getting enough sleep.

While getting enough sleep is essential for overall health, too little sleep can actually be harmful. Research suggests that sleeping less than the recommended 7 to 9 hours per night is associated with cognitive decline, increased risk of heart disease and other health issues.⁴ Sleep length and quality are both important, and some studies suggest sleep quality is more important of the two.⁵

Myth 4: Sleep apnea affects mostly older-aged people.

While sleep apnea affects many older-aged people, it also affects younger people. In fact, research shows that the number of people diagnosed with sleep apnea continues to increase. Sleep apnea affects 10% of men aged 30 to 49 and 3% of women aged 30 to 49.⁶

Myth 5: Wearing a PAP mask makes me look unattractive.

Some people hesitate to use a PAP (positive airway pressure) machine because they worry about how they will look while wearing the mask. However, the benefits of PAP therapy far outweigh any aesthetic concerns. Properly treating sleep apnea with PAP therapy may help reduce symptoms such as fatigue, tiredness, and low energy, including sleepiness.⁷ good sleep can lead to overall well-being.⁸

The Bottom Line

Understanding the facts about sleep apnea is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. If you or a loved one experience symptoms, such as loud snoring, frequent awakenings or daytime fatigue, consult a healthcare provider.

Improve your sleep by taking a sleep test, which can be fast, easy and is covered by many insurance providers.*