8. Sore Throat or Dry Mouth Upon Waking: The Silent Symptoms of OSA
We all love waking up refreshed, but for someone with OSA, mornings can bring unpleasant surprises like a sore throat or a dry mouth. With frequent apneas and partially closed airways, there’s a tendency to breathe through the mouth, leading to these symptoms.
When one constantly gasps for air or has disrupted breathing patterns, there’s a high likelihood of mouth breathing. Continual airflow through the mouth can dry out oral tissues, depriving them of their natural moisture and leading to a dry mouth feeling upon waking.
The struggle for consistent airflow can strain the throat muscles. This, combined with the dryness, can result in a morning sore throat. It’s not just about the discomfort; persistent dryness can increase the risk of dental issues and infections.(8)
