What is the inability to breathe at night?

This question was asked in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on 03/28/2012.
I have snoring, sleeplessness and the inability to breathe at night. I think I have a serious sleep disorder.

Doctors Answers (1)

Farhad Sigari, MD, FACS
Answered on: 3/29/2012

Depends. If you are describing that every time you lay flat - regardless of whether you are sleeping or not - then that is not a sleep disorder, and you should see your primary MD ASAP as it could be a problem with your heart or lungs. If, however, you are describing that your problems come on only after you are sleep, then likely you should be evaluated for a sleep disorder. An experienced sleep physician will perform a detailed history and a physical and will determine what is the best way to evaluate your situation. A sleep study is the gold standard test to diagnose sleep disorders.