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Do you often find yourself waking up in the night feeling like you can’t breathe? Maybe you feel like there’s something blocking your airway, or you awaken realizing you haven’t been breathing. These nighttime episodes can be frightening and confusing, and may be a sign of a serious condition. While the occasional awakening gasping for air could be due to something simple like a bad dream, sleeping on your face, or nasal congestion, it’s also a common symptom of sleep apnea.
Why do you wake up gasping for air?
Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that results in frequent apnea episodes, or periods of airway obstruction during sleep. It can have many causes, and the symptoms can be varied depending on the type of sleep apnea you have, but waking in the night feeling like you can’t breathe is a red flag that shouldn’t be ignored. It could mean that your brain isn’t getting the oxygen it needs while you're asleep.
Causes to rule out
Sleep apnea isn’t the only condition that can cause nighttime gasping, and it’s important to rule out a few other things when seeking a diagnosis. So, what else could be interrupting your breathing during the night?
- Acid reflux - Also known as GERD, acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows up into the oesophagus, causing a heartburn sensation and can even feel like choking. While this could be the sole cause, it’s important to note that acid reflux is also a symptom of sleep apnea.
- Panic attacks - Anxiety can also play a part in interrupting sleep. Nocturnal panic attacks can come on suddenly during sleep, causing patients to wake with a racing heart, sweating, or the sensation of suffocation. If you suffer from an anxiety disorder or also experience daytime panic attacks, this may be another cause.
- Asthma - Sleep apnea episodes are not to be confused with asthma attacks. Nighttime asthma attacks can also cause a sudden awakening with difficulty breathing, but the symptoms don’t immediately subside once you’re awake. Asthma attacks can be caused by changes in your circadian rhythm, allergens, and more, so it’s important to discuss with your doctor.
Other symptoms to look out for
If your nighttime gasping can’t be explained by another cause, sleep apnea may be to blame. If you think it might be the case, it’s important to keep an eye out for other classic symptoms. Be on the lookout for: insomnia, snoring, frequent urination, daytime fatigue, mood changes, headache, dry mouth, and sore throat.
Wondering if sleep apnea is affecting you? Take a few seconds to check out the Dumbo Health Sleep Quiz, and with a few simple questions, you can begin your treatment journey today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is waking up gasping for air always a sign of a medical problem?
Not always. Occasionally, waking up short of breath can happen if you were in a deep dream, had nasal congestion, or were startled awake. But if it happens regularly, it can point to a serious underlying condition and should be evaluated.
Can allergies make you wake up gasping?
Yes. Allergic rhinitis or sinus congestion can make nasal breathing difficult, forcing mouth breathing and sometimes causing a choking or gasping sensation — especially when lying on your back.
Could heart problems cause nighttime gasping?
Yes. Heart failure can lead to paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND) — sudden nighttime breathlessness caused by fluid buildup in the lungs. This usually happens a few hours after falling asleep and may be accompanied by leg swelling or fatigue.
What should I do if I wake up gasping regularly?
Keep a log of how often it happens, any triggers (meals, stress, sleeping position), and whether you have other symptoms like snoring, chest pain, or coughing. Bring this information to your doctor, who may order a sleep study, lung function test, or heart evaluation to find the cause.
Wondering if sleep apnea is affecting you? Take a few seconds to check out the Dumbo Health Sleep Quiz, and with a few simple questions, you can begin your treatment journey today.
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