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Why is Sleep Apnea Under-diagnosed in Women? Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) has historically been under-diagnosed in women for two reasons. First, the most easily-identifiable sign of sleep apnea (loud, heroic snoring) often does not exist in women. Instead, women with sleep apnea can have snoring that is mild by comparison. Nevertheless, the stress to the woman's body remains. Second, OSA in women creates symptoms that are similar to depression, which causes OSA to be misdiagnosed as depression in a startling number of cases. These symptoms include:
As a result of the mis-diagnosis, a mood-elevating pill (anti-depressant) is often prescribed, while the underlying cause of the symptoms (sleep apnea) remains untreated. Why is Sleep Apnea Under-Diagnosed in Pregnant Women? OBGYNs have also historically believed that women are protected from breathing disorders by increased progesterone levels during pregnancy. Progesterone is a hormone that increases a pregnant woman's drive to breathe. However, it is today clear that progesterone is not sufficient to overcome a blocked airway. As a result, women and OBGYNs both need to be asking and talking about the symptoms of SAPS. Next: Three Children with Birth Defects: Deb Ramacher's Story  | |||||||
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