Sleep apnea can result in a variety of negative effects, including chronic fatigue, mood changes, and an inability to focus. If you found out you have sleep apnea, you certainly aren’t on your own. Did you know that sleep apnea affects more than 20 million people in the United States? Celebrities aren’t excluded from that number. Here are 6 popular celebrities who are also suffering from sleep apnea.
Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal is considered to be one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Something you may not know about him is that he suffers from severe sleep apnea. He was first diagnosed with the condition after participating in a Harvard sleep study. In an interview, he stated that he stops breathing 72 times per hour, resulting in him waking up panting.
William Shatner
William Shatner is another popular celebrity who has sleep apnea. To manage his condition, he uses a CPAP machine while he sleeps. A CPAP works by continuously providing air at a pressure that is high enough to prevent the collapse of the airway. The pressurized air is provided through a mask that seals with your mouth or nose, allowing you to breathe easily and sleep without waking.
Rosie O’Donnell
You know Rosie O’Donnell as an American comedian, actress, author, and television personality. After undergoing a home sleep test, she learned that she has sleep apnea. She states that after just one night of CPAP treatment, she felt a life-changing difference.
Roseanne Barr
Roseanne Barr is an American actress, comedian, writer, and television producer. These days, she is living in Hawaii. Due to her snoring, her husband often had a difficult time sleeping throughout the night. Roseanne underwent a sleep study where her doctor diagnosed her with sleep apnea. They recommended that she utilize CPAP treatment to manage the condition.
Amy Poehler
American actress, comedian, director, producer, and writer Amy Poehler said in an interview that she has been told that she snores so loudly that it sounds like she’s choking or dying. When speaking about her CPAP machine, she stated, “You know it’s good for you but most of the time you don’t feel like it.”
Randy Jackson
Randy Jackson was a judge on the hit TV show American Idol for 12 seasons. He was diagnosed with both sleep apnea and Type 2 diabetes. He claims that today he sleeps better at night and feels much more energetic after losing weight and seeking treatment.
Sleep apnea doesn’t discriminate! If you have been experiencing symptoms, it’s worthwhile to get tested. This way, you can work towards getting a sounder sleep.
About the Author
At Star Sleep & Wellness in Dallas, we have a team that consists of a Sleep Dentist, Sleep Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, and a Licensed Psychologist. If you think you may have sleep apnea, we’d be happy to help you get the answers you’ve been looking for. To learn more about sleep apnea or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (469) 331-5505.