Women with asthma appear to be more likely to suffer from sleep apnea.

Researchers say that having asthma may nearly double a young woman's risk of obstructive sleep apnea symptoms.

Respiratory illness and allergies have often been linked to apnea symptoms, so the link to asthma is not surprising.

The findings of this study may indicate that women with asthma should be screened for snoring and sleep apnea symptoms, so they can obtain an early diagnosis and treatment if necessary.

Apnea, the cessation of breathing for periods of time during sleep, is linked to increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and other serious health conditions.

People who suffer from sleep apnea may have as many as 400 apneic episodes per night.

Screening asthmatic women for sleep apnea may save lives.