How to Know If You Have Sleep Apnea: Signs, Symptoms & When to Take a ResMed Sleep Test
- Nabiha A.
- Apr 15
- 4 min read
Index:
Introduction
Lately, more Malaysians are complaining about poor sleep, constant fatigue, and unexplainable headaches. With increasing screen time, rising stress levels, and lifestyle changes, sleep problems are on the rise. But did you know that what seems like just “bad sleep” could actually be sleep apnea?
Many people don’t even know they have it. Sleep apnea can go unnoticed for years, silently affecting your health. Here’s how to tell if you may have sleep apnea—and when it’s time to take a ResMed sleep test.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It disrupts your rest, leaving you tired no matter how many hours you think you’ve slept. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which happens when throat muscles relax too much and block your airway.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Look out for these red flags:
Loud snoring (especially if it’s paired with choking or gasping)
Waking up feeling tired, even after a full night's sleep
Morning headaches
Dry mouth or sore throat when you wake up
Difficulty focusing or remembering things
Irritability or mood swings
Falling asleep easily during the day, such as while watching TV or driving
If these sound familiar, don’t ignore them—they’re not “normal” tiredness.
Who Is at Risk in Malaysia?
In Malaysia, lifestyle and health factors increase the risk of sleep apnea, especially among:
Overweight individuals
People with hypertension or type 2 diabetes
Smokers and regular alcohol drinkers
Those with a family history of sleep disorders
People who lead a sedentary lifestyle
With obesity rates and diabetes cases rising in Malaysia, many people are unknowingly at risk.
Why It’s a Serious Health Issue
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to:
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Type 2 diabetes
Depression
Memory problems
Accidents due to fatigue
That’s why diagnosing it early is so important.
When to Take a ResMed Sleep Test
If your symptoms last more than two weeks or your partner notices you snore loudly or stop breathing while sleeping, it’s time to get tested. You should also consider a sleep test if:
You’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure or heart disease
You feel tired despite sleeping 7–9 hours
You experience frequent mood changes or mental fog
What Is a ResMed Sleep Test?
ResMed is a globally trusted name in sleep health. Their sleep tests can be done at home or in a sleep clinic. A home sleep test involves wearing a small device that records your breathing, oxygen levels, and heart rate while you sleep.
In Malaysia, many hospitals and sleep clinics now offer ResMed-approved sleep studies, making it easier and more accessible.
Benefits of Getting Tested
Comfort: Do it from home.
Accuracy: Valid results evaluated by professionals.
Peace of mind: Know what’s wrong and how to fix it.
Treatment Options
If diagnosed, treatment may include:
CPAP therapy (a machine that helps you breathe at night)
Lifestyle changes like losing weight or avoiding alcohol
Mouth guards or oral devices
Surgery, in rare severe cases
Many Malaysians report feeling more alert, happier, and healthier within weeks of starting treatment.
Where to Get Help in Malaysia
You can visit sleep centers in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and other major cities. Look for clinics that offer ResMed testing or consult your GP for a referral.
For convenience, some services now offer online consultations and even deliver the testing kits to your home.
Did You Know?
Sleep apnea affects 1 in 5 adults in Southeast Asia
It increases the risk of car accidents due to drowsy driving
People with untreated sleep apnea are twice as likely to develop diabetes
Tips for Better Sleep
Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid alcohol 3 hours before bed
Sleep on your side, not your back
Set a regular sleep schedule
Keep your bedroom cool and dark
Conclusion
If you’ve been tired for too long or others have noticed your loud snoring, it’s time to act. Sleep apnea is common but treatable. A simple ResMed sleep test could change your life.
Don’t wait—get tested, sleep better, and wake up healthier.
FAQs
1. Can sleep apnea go away on its own?
In some mild cases, lifestyle changes like weight loss may help, but many people need medical treatment for long-term relief.
2. Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?
No, but loud, frequent snoring paired with daytime fatigue could be a warning sign.
3. How much does a ResMed sleep test cost in Malaysia?
It varies, but home tests typically range from RM300–RM600. Some insurance plans may cover it.
4. Can children have sleep apnea?
Yes. Children can have it too, often caused by enlarged tonsils or obesity.
5. What happens if sleep apnea is left untreated?
It increases the risk of heart problems, stroke, high blood pressure, and poor quality of life.
