For a long time now my parents have told me that I snore and seem to stop breathing and catch my breath when I sleep. I am pretty sure that I have sleep apnea, although my dad thinks it's stress/anxiety. Recently I have noticed my heart beat more than usual and I think that it might be palpitations. I have found out that sleep apnea can cause potentially dangerous heart conditions such as arrhythmia or cardiomyopathy and one of the symptoms. I know I might sound crazy but I am scared out of mind and I haven't been able to sleep well in several days because I am scared. I am a bit overweight ( BMI 26) and I am 18 and would really appreciate some help. I am going to the doctors soon. Please help.

Hi w1ndowguy

Welcome to NeuroTalk .

It might be an idea if you got your doctor to refer you to a sleep apnea specialist. There are clinical tests for it and usually it can be treated successfully.

Best wishes.

I was having problems with AFIB earlier this year - kept putting off having a sleep study. Finally I did when I stopped breathing during my colonoscopy. Best thing I ever did!!!! You need the sleep study - and you need to be on a CPAP machine. Best of luck to you.