Sleep apnea myths that could be hurting your health

Written by: Tessa Chiari

Sleep apnea has many myths that surround the condition. Understanding these myths and the facts of this condition is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Leaving it untreated can have serious health consequences if left unaddressed.

Debunking Sleep Apnea Myths: What You Really Need to Know

Sleep apnea myths can prevent people from seeking the help they need or cause them to dismiss important symptoms altogether. Many individuals avoid sleep studies or delay treatment because they believe common myths about sleep apnea only affecting certain types of people. Some people think that the symptoms they're experiencing are simply a normal part of aging. By separating fact from fiction, we can make sure that more people receive accurate information about this serious sleep disorder. 

1. Only overweight people get sleep apnea

Sleep apnea can affect anyone regardless of weight or age. The tendency of the upper airway to collapse during sleep is influenced by many things such as the skeletal configuration of the face, neck, muscle function, and even medications or alcohol. 

2. Snoring always means sleep apnea 

While snoring is a symptom of sleep apnea, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. Some people with sleep apnea don’t even snore at all. Snoring is the sound of airflow through a narrowed airway, whereas sleep apnea involves pauses in breathing or periods of shallow breathing during sleep. 

3. CPAP therapy is uncomfortable

While CPAP therapy might be a big adjustment and start out being uncomfortable, it does get a lot easier. CPAP therapy has improved drastically offering lighter, quieter, and more comfortable machines and masks. Finding your best fit is about trial and error and an essential tip is to remain consistent and not give up. 

4. Sleep apnea does not occur in children 

All age groups can be affected by sleep apnea. Signs such as mouth breathing, restless sleep, and behavioral problems can all indicate sleep apnea in a child. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are a frequent cause, but other factors such as genetics can play a role. 

Sources:

Mayo Clinic News Network. “Mayo Clinic Q and A: Understanding Central Sleep Apnea.” Mayo Clinic News Network, 2025, https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-understanding-central-sleep-apnea/. Accessed 15 July 2025.