When most people think of a person with sleep apnea, they tend to envision an overweight, snoring male.

But that’s not always the case. Women are also prone to sleep disturbances, including sleep apnea, which may worsen when they reach menopause and their estrogen level declines.

Although snoring, daytime sleepiness, and breathing pauses are tip-offs to sleep apnea in men, these symptoms don’t necessarily occur in women.

Women may experience fatigue, insomnia, morning headaches, mood disturbances, and dry mouth upon awakening.

Sleep apnea also commonly occurs in women who are not overweight. In fact, they may be slender and petite. This can lead to the diagnosis being overlooked.

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and depression.

If you believe you may have it, talk to your doctor about a referral to a qualified sleep clinic.