For Family and Friends, What Can You Do To Help?

Often, people with sleep apnea do not know they have it. They are not aware that their breathing stops and starts many times while they are sleeping.

Family members or bed partners are usually the first ones to notice that the person snores and stops breathing while sleeping. It is important for people with sleep apnea to get medical help. They are at higher risk for car crashes and work-related accidents and other medical problems due to their sleepiness.

People with sleep apnea may fall asleep during the day, even when:

  • driving a car
  • working
  • talking on the phone.

Sleep apnea can be very serious. It is important that people with sleep apnea see their doctor to treat and control this disorder. Treatment may improve the person’s overall health and happiness, and the quality of sleep both for the person and the entire family.