Sleep apnea is a common and treatable chronic disorder in which people stop breathing repeatedly during sleep. The word ‘apnea’ actually comes from Greek and means ‘without breath. Sleep apneas or pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur as many as 50 times per hour. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea and is caused by the soft tissue of the airway collapsing and causing a blockage so the person stops breathing. When this happens, the amount of oxygen in the blood drops causing normal breaths to start again, often with a loud snort, choking or gasping.

SYMPTOMS OF SLEEP APNEA
Typical symptoms include:
• Loud snoring
• Pauses in breathing during sleep
• Choking or gasping during sleep
• Sudden awakenings
• Waking up in a sweat during the night
• Constantly feeling unrefreshed in the morning
  after a night’s sleep
• Headaches, sore throat, or dry mouth in
  the mornings after waking up
• Daytime sleepiness and falling asleep
  at inappropriate times such as when
  driving or at work

Most people with sleep apnea are not aware of their condition because it occurs while they sleep. Symptoms may be present for years, even decades without identification. It is often sleep partners who notice restless sleep and make the person aware that something may be wrong.