Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is repeatedly
interrupted during sleep. The time period for which the
breathing stops or decreases is usually between 10 and 30
seconds. When these episodes occur repeatedly, sleep apnea can
seriously disrupt the quality of sleep. There are three types of
respiratory events: - Obstructive apnea—caused by a temporary,
partial, or complete blockage of the airway - Central
apnea—caused by a temporary failure to make an effort to breathe
- Mixed apnea—combination of the first two types These factors
increase your chance of developing sleep apnea. Tell your doctor
if you have any of these risk factors: - Sex: male - Large neck
circumference - Age: middle to older age - Family history of
apnea Structural abnormalities of the nose, throat, or other
part of the respiratory tract. Examples include: - Severely
enlarged tonsils - Deviated nasal septum - Medicines: sedatives
and sleeping aids - Alcohol consumption - Fatigue and sleepiness
during waking hours - Loud snoring -