Tired All the Time Despite a “Normal” Sleep Study?
Many people struggle with chronic fatigue, morning headaches, poor concentration, jaw pain, or restless sleep, yet are told they do not have sleep apnea. If this sounds familiar, you may have a condition called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS).
UARS occurs when the airway becomes partially narrowed during sleep. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, the airway may not completely collapse, and oxygen levels often remain normal. However, the increased effort of breathing causes the brain to repeatedly wake just enough to restore normal airflow.
These brief awakenings, called arousals, can occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night. Most people never remember them, but they can significantly reduce sleep quality.
Common Symptoms of UARS
People with UARS often report:
- Feeling exhausted despite spending enough time in bed
- Frequent awakenings during the night
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
- Anxiety or heightened stress sensitivity
- Clenching or grinding of the teeth
- TMJ pain and facial muscle tension
- Chronic neck and shoulder discomfort
Because oxygen levels may remain normal, UARS is frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed.
Why Diagnosis Matters
Poor-quality sleep affects every aspect of health, including energy levels, mood, memory, cardiovascular health, and pain sensitivity. Over time, untreated UARS can contribute to chronic fatigue and persistent head, neck, and jaw symptoms.
Advanced sleep testing and airway evaluation can often identify breathing disturbances that traditional screening may miss.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
If you wake up tired, struggle with headaches or jaw pain, or have been told your sleep study was “normal” despite ongoing symptoms, an airway-focused evaluation may provide answers.
At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh, we evaluate the relationship between breathing, sleep quality, TMJ disorders, and chronic facial pain. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether UARS may be affecting your health and quality of life.
Daytime fatigue
Better breathing. Better sleep. Better health.