Hi Anyone can have sleep apnea. You describe much the same sensation my husband describes (if he is not using his CPAP machine for breathing while sleeping). He has been diagnosed with sleep apnea for about 10 years.....and uses a CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) each night. Sleep apnea, untreated, can lead to elevated blood pressure and cardiac problems... as well as unrestful sleep and prolonged fatigue. You should be seen by a sleep disorders specialist and be evaluated in a sleep clinic overnight. Rita Weeks 56/11