If you suffer from frequent headaches, a dry scratchy throat, perpetual tiredness, or ever wake up at night trying to catch your breath, you may be suffering from sleep apnea.
But since people don't often wake fully when they experience breathing problems in the night, so self-diagnosis can be difficult or impossible.
If you are tired throughout the entire day, or find yourself constantly dozing off at your desk or needing naps often, you may want to try one or two self-help treatments, or schedule a doctor visit for further follow-up.
Statistics show that more men than women suffer from sleep apnea, but if you're overweight, or smoke, you are more likely to suffer from this serious condition.
This is where a self help sleep apnea treatment is the best defense.
If you smoke - stop smoking.
I know, that's easier said than done - but maybe cut down in the evening and see if it makes a difference.
If you are overweight, try to improve your symptoms by finding a healthy way to lose weight.
If you do this, you will also make a very healthy lifestyle change by learning how to lose weight and keep it off.
Also, try not to sleep your back.
This is an effective sleep apnea treatment because it prevents your airway from being blocked by fat tissue or your tonsils.
If none of this works, it's time to see a doctor.
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, the best treatment may come in the form of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine.
This is a specialized airway machine that delivers a gentle flow of air into your body so you keep breathing.
It also prevents your throat from closing up, which is the main cause of gasping for air in the middle of the night.