Could your nighttime awakenings due to coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and breathlessness be caused by sleep apnea? Sleep interruption caused by periods of pauses in breathing is a common condition for those living with COPD. Such pauses can last ten seconds or longer. Learn more about the risks associated with COPD and sleep apnea (or Overlap Syndrome). Click here to visit the Pulmonary Education and Research Foundation blog for the signs of sleep apnea, as well as steps to reduce your chance of developing the condition.