Which of the following is a sign of moderate to severe sleep apnea?

Daytime tiredness and fatigue are significant indicators of moderate to severe sleep apnea because this condition disrupts normal sleep patterns, leading to non-restorative sleep. Individuals with sleep apnea experience repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the airway during sleep, which can cause them to awaken frequently throughout the night, often without realizing it. As a result, they may not achieve the deep stages of sleep necessary for restorative rest.

This constant disturbance leads to excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue, which can affect daily activities, concentration, and overall quality of life. Additionally, individuals may find themselves prone to falling asleep during the day or experiencing impaired cognitive functions.

While other signs can be associated with sleep apnea, such as headaches, occasional snoring, or nighttime anxiety, they do not exclusively indicate moderate to severe sleep apnea as effectively as daytime tiredness and fatigue do. These other symptoms may also arise from various other conditions or factors, hence making them less definitive in diagnosing sleep apnea severity.