What condition characterized by nighttime awakening due to shortness of breath is commonly associated with high BMI?

The condition characterized by nighttime awakening due to shortness of breath that is commonly associated with a high BMI is sleep apnea. This condition often occurs because excess weight can lead to fatty deposits around the neck and throat, making it more difficult for air to flow during sleep. During sleep, these fatty deposits can cause obstruction of the upper airway, which leads to intermittent cessation of breathing, often resulting in fragmented sleep and awakening with feelings of suffocation.

Individuals with sleep apnea frequently report being awoken at night with feelings of shortness of breath, which can be alarming and disruptive to their overall sleep quality. The association between high BMI and sleep apnea is well-documented, as obesity increases the likelihood of developing this disorder due to the mechanical effects of excess weight on the respiratory system.