Sleep apnea risks and symptoms identified

Sleep apnea is a respiratory disorder characterized by temporary narrowing or closure of the soft tissues in the throat during sleep, leading to breathing pauses that can last from seconds to minutes. In Germany, this condition affects approximately 30 percent of men and 13 percent of women.

Symptoms often include loud, irregular snoring, gasping for air, restless movement during sleep, and excessive daytime fatigue. These interruptions cause oxygen levels in the blood to drop, which can lead to serious long-term health complications if left untreated, such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, strokes, diabetes, and chronic headaches.

Common treatments include CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy, which uses a mask to keep airways open during sleep, or surgical interventions. Under certain conditions, individuals diagnosed with sleep apnea may be eligible for a degree of disability status (GdB) in Germany.