Get checked for sleep apena. I dreamed one day I was running around trying to breath. I woke up gasping for air. One day I told my doctor about my dream, and how I woke up. He got me tested for apnea. I stoped breathing in my sleep 53 times on my back. And 18 times when I was on my side.It's just not fat people. anyone who has a turkey neck. are loud snorers or have apnea. because the soft tissue in the back of your throat relaxes during sleep, causing a blockage of the airway (as well as loud snoring).