Sleep Apnea
Many believe that yawning is a sign of boredom, while in some cases, it is considered a socially unacceptable action. The occasional yawning may well be a sign of boredom or tiredness, but frequent yawning might be a tell-tale sign of sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax and collapse, blocking the airway. This can cause people to snore, gasp for air, or experience periods of silence followed by a loud snort. In some excessive yawning may be the body’s way of trying to open the airway.
Individuals suffering from sleep apnea may also experience excessive daytime yawning. This is because sleep apnea can lead to fragmented and interrupted sleep, making people tired during the day.
For those who frequently yawn during the day or have other sleep apnea symptoms, it’s essential to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Sleep apnea can be treated with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and sleeping on the side, or with assistive devices, such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to widen the airway.
