June is Men’s Health Month, a time to raise awareness around the unique health challenges men face and encourage regular checkups, healthy habits, and early detection. One of the most overlooked (yet most dangerous) health risks for men? Sleep apnea.
At SleepWell in Lafayette, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders like sleep apnea, and we’ve seen firsthand how many men struggle with symptoms without even realizing it. So why is sleep apnea more common in men? And more importantly, what can you do about it?
Let’s break it down.
Why Men Are at Higher Risk
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, disrupting breathing and reducing oxygen flow. Research shows that men are two to three times more likely to have OSA than women Sleep Foundation.
Here’s why:
- Body and Airway Structure
Men typically have larger neck circumferences and more fat distribution in the upper body, which can narrow the airway and increase the risk of collapse during sleep National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. - Hormonal Influence
Higher levels of testosterone may play a role in airway muscle relaxation, making the airway more prone to obstruction. Estrogen and progesterone in women, by contrast, are believed to help keep airways open, NIH. - Symptoms Often Go Undiagnosed
Men are more likely to overlook or downplay symptoms like snoring or daytime fatigue. As a result, many cases of sleep apnea in men remain undiagnosed and untreated, sometimes for years.
Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea in Men
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to take a closer look:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Pauses in breathing while sleeping (often noticed by a partner)
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Daytime fatigue or dozing off during the day
- Morning headaches or dry mouth
- Difficulty concentrating, irritability, or low mood
According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health consequences, even if you think you’re just a “heavy snorer.”
Why Untreated Sleep Apnea Is a Bigger Deal Than You Think
Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring — it affects nearly every system in your body. When left untreated, it increases the risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Depression and anxiety
- Weight gain and low testosterone
In fact, research published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that men with untreated OSA were 58% more likely to develop heart failure than those without it JCSM.
What You Can Do About It
The good news? Sleep apnea is highly treatable, and most patients notice improvements in both sleep and daily life once they begin treatment.
- Get a Sleep Evaluation
The first step is awareness. If you suspect sleep apnea, schedule a sleep evaluation. At SleepWell, we offer easy, effective testing options to get the answers you need. - Start Treatment
There are several treatment options tailored to your lifestyle and needs. We’ll help you find the right fit. - Make Supportive Lifestyle Changes
Reducing alcohol use, losing excess weight, and avoiding sleeping on your back can all help reduce symptoms, though they aren’t a substitute for proper treatment. - Stick With It
Treatment is most effective when used consistently. And once you start sleeping better, you’ll be surprised how much your energy, focus, and overall health improve.
This Men’s Health Month, Make Sleep a Priority
Your health is worth more than just pushing through fatigue or ignoring the snoring. If you’ve been noticing signs of poor sleep or just don’t feel like yourself lately, it’s time to take action.
Let’s make this the year you prioritize rest, recovery, and resilience.
📞 Call SleepWell at (337) 595-5006
📍 1601 Kaliste Saloom Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508