General Health Information

Among the various sleep disorders, one of the most dangerous is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when in the airway collapses during sleep. The condition can actually cause the sufferer to stop breathing in their sleep. This can bring about other complications, such as high blood pressure and heart problems. In cases of severe OSA, the person afflicted can stop breathing as many as 120 times during the night.

In the United States alone, sleep apnea affects more than 12 million people. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most frequent manifestation of this problem, affecting approximately 2% of women and 4% of men over the age of 35. The chief cause of sleep apnea is excessive weight gain. Other factors include age, alcohol abuse, sedative drugs, nasal congestion and smoking.

A number of treatment alternatives are available, including weight reduction, positional therapy, surgery and oral appliances worn while sleeping. While obstructive sleep apnea can be fatal, it is easily treated. And those suffering from it can find a way to lead a normal life.