Beware of Constant Yawning: It Could Be a Symptom of Disease.
Constant yawning could be a sign of a disease, according to Otorhinolaryngology Specialist Prof. Dr. Yavuz Selim Yıldırım. While yawning is considered an involuntary reflex and a sign of sleep preparation or entering sleep, constant yawning beyond physiological stages can be an indicator of various conditions, such as sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, and other sleep disorders that prevent oxygen from reaching the brain. Such symptoms require immediate consultation with a doctor and treatment.
Dr. Yıldırım explained that a normal person breathes through the nose with the mouth closed during sleep, while individuals with a blocked nose breathe through the mouth and can experience a closed airway in the throat area. This causes oxygen deprivation in the brain, leading to risks of heart attack and constant sleepiness due to the brain’s inability to receive sufficient sleep.
People who consistently yawn excessively should consult an Otorhinolaryngology Specialist for an examination. Upon detection of structural problems, these issues should be corrected, while individuals without structural issues should undergo a sleep test and detailed diagnosis. Sleep apnea patients commonly experience a lack of sleep, difficulty in concentration, forgetfulness, irritability, and constant feelings of tiredness.
Treatment options for sleep apnea include conservative surgeries to the nose and throat areas or a mask treatment at night while sleeping on the nose and mouth. Treatment for sleep apnea has shown a significant reduction in heart attack and hypertension rates in treated patients.
Therefore, if you face constant yawning, despite sufficient sleep, you should immediately consult a doctor to identify any underlying conditions and take timely action to protect your health.
