A review in the European Respiratory Review reports that women are less likely to mention snoring or pauses in breathing. They more often complain of fatigue, lack of energy, insomnia, morning headaches, mood changes and nightmares.
The role of menopause
After menopause, the prevalence of sleep apnoea in women roughly doubles, regardless of age and weight. Its symptoms are easily confused with menopausal symptoms, so women are more often left undiagnosed and untreated.
What this means for you
- Constant tiredness despite enough sleep can be a sign of apnoea.
- Ask your doctor about a sleep study, especially after menopause.
- Ask someone close to you to notice whether you stop breathing at night.
Sources
- Bonsignore MR, Saaresranta T, Riha RL. Sex differences in obstructive sleep apnoea. Eur Respir Rev. 2019;28(154):190030. doi:10.1183/16000617.0030-2019