Sleep Apnea

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Fact Sheet for Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Affected by Sleep Apnea

The Facts about Sleep Apnea

The Facts about Sleep Apnea and Commercial Drivers

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs in all age groups and both sexes, but there are a number of factors that may put you at higher risk:

  • A family history of sleep apnea
  • Having a small upper airway
  • Being overweight
  • Having a recessed chin, small jaw, or a large overbite
  • A large neck size (17 inches or greater for men, 16 inches or greater for women)
  • Smoking and alcohol use
  • Being age 40 or older
  • Ethnicity

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

  • Loud snoring
  • Morning headaches and nausea
  • Gasping or choking while sleeping
  • Loss of sex drive/impotence
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Irritability and/or feelings of depression
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Concentration and memory problems
  • Frequent nighttime urination

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

In order to diagnose sleep apnea, your doctor will probably send you to a sleep disorders center for testing.  You may be asked to spend a night or two at the center, where experts will monitor your sleep.  A sleep study test (polysomnography) will determine if you have sleep apnea and how severe it is.  If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may benefit from both lifestyle changes and specific medical treatment.

Lifestyle Changes

Medical Treatment