DR Jane, I have no memories of gasping for air. Not everyone does. That is why a lot of people have no clue that they have Sleep Apnea.
My doctor had mentioned a few times over that last couple of years that I ought to get tested for Sleep Apnea, but I paid little attention until I took the trip to Los Angeles and really noticed how utterly exhausted I felt the whole time and how confused I seemed to be much of the time while I was down there (constantly getting lost, for instance.)
Also, anxiety and depression was rearing its ugly head more and more over that last few years despite my taking meds for both, and despite having not had a problem with either since the mid 90s.
My doctor had put me on a treatment over a year ago which we hoped would make me feel more energetic, and as it was not making any difference in how I felt, I finally decided to go in for a sleep test....really glad that I did. Sleep Apnea causes a lot of medical problems, including diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and dying in your sleep.
The depression has disappeared and the anxiety has lessened considerably. I don't take my 2 to 3 hour naps during the weekend any more and I actually feel like going out to the gym! My concentration is also much, much better. I image over the next few months I will see even more improvements.