Two of the common obstructive sleep apnea symptoms include loud, persistent snoring and daytime fatigue. Sleep apnea is characterized by snoring and breathing cessations that may last for a few seconds to up to an hour of sleep. When an apnea episode occurs, sleeper wakes up momentarily gasping for breath.

If left untreated, the health issue can affect the respiratory system and even lead to premature death. However, the sleep disorder is not without treatments, one of them being the sleep apnea mouthpiece that advances the lower jaw for a better flow of air. It is suggested especially for mild to moderate apnea with loud snoring.

Even a home sleep study is advised to individuals to diagnose apnea through the existence of its associated symptoms. It is based on the findings of the diagnosis done at home of the person that non-invasive treatments are prescribed to them in oral appliance therapy. However, even though the anti snoring mouthpiece can be bought over-the-counter, proper diagnosis is a must to understand if the person suffers from apnea and necessitates timely treatment.

Below are two relatively less known symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.

Acid Reflux

Heartburn is a relatively less known sign that may signify the probability of apnea. A majority of people with acid reflux tend to wake up from a deep sleep state. Breathing obstruction can suction up the digestive fluids known as gastric juice, which gets secreted inside the stomach. This secretion of gastric acid may increase after bedtime, which can reduce the pressure in the upper esophageal sphincter.

Once acid suctions up and reaches the throat, it may lead to swelling of the throat area. If you have tonsils, the throat may enlarge, and if so, that may obstruct the normal breathing process.

That is why doctors suggest healthy eating practice before bedtime in oral appliance therapy in order to help people reduce acid reflux. Besides, it is advisable not to eat around 3 to 4 hours prior to sleep, especially if you suffer from sleep apnea.

Bed Wetting

Although involuntary urination during the night is associated with children, it can also indicate apnea among adults. If you suffer from bed wetting in childhood, you may encounter other apnea symptoms such as loud snoring, waking up from sleep due to coughing, and sleep patterns similar to sleepwalking disorder.

Bed wetting worsens even as other symptoms of sleep apnea advances through aging. Therefore, those suffering from this condition should seek treatment timely treatment from health care experts.