Can having sleep apnea cause shortness of breath when falling asleep?

Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea can cause shortness of breath due to apnea, heart and lung conditions causes shortness of breath.

Airway is everything: Sleep apnea can cause many issues. You should consult a sleep medicine physician, ENT and or a dentist that specializes in sleep to get you going in the right direction.

Depends: If you have obstructive sleep apnea. Non obstructive sleep apnea will be less likely associated with sob when awake.

Yes: You may be having apneic episodes shortly after or while transitioning in to sleep. Some people sense this as gasping/choking/shortness of breath. Discuss with your doctor, as a sleep study may be indicated.