What is Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS)?

UARS is a form of sleep-disordered breathing where the airway narrows subtly during sleep without fully collapsing, triggering micro-arousals that prevent deep, restorative sleep.

Why does UARS affect women more than men?

UARS is approximately three times more prevalent in women than men. Female hormones progesterone and estrogen directly influence airway muscle tone, and their decline during menopause increases risk.

Is there a connection between UARS and fibromyalgia?

Research suggests a strong connection. A 2004 study found that 27 of 28 women with fibromyalgia had sleep-disordered breathing consistent with UARS, and CPAP treatment improved symptoms 23-47%.

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N Tavernier 5/20/26 N Tavernier 5/20/26

The Silent Epidemic: Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome in Women and Its Hidden Links to Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, and Dementia

Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome disproportionately affects women and may silently drive chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and cognitive decline. The research — and what breathing retraining can do.