What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea, also called OSA, is a condition that renders a person unable to breathe properly during sleep. As many as 30% (and possibly more) chronic, severe snorers are likely to have OSA, thereby experiencing apneas while sleeping. An apnea is a temporary inability to breathe, and can last for up to 40 seconds before the brain wakes the person up so that he moves and continues breathing. In the worst-case scenario, a person with OSA may experience hundreds of apneas per night There are many potential health risks for sleep-apnea sufferers who don’t pursue help. These risks include:- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Obesity
- Irritability
- Decreased sex drive