Sleep Apnea is a condition in which people stop breathing, for a brief moment, multiple times during their sleep. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common form and is caused by a blockage of the airway during sleep. With each pause in breathing, the brain briefly arouses the affected person in order to resume breathing. As a result, sleep is interrupted.

Persons affected with sleep apnea usually snore heavily and partners may notice long pauses in their breathing during sleep. Persons affected with sleep apnea usually wake up from a full night's rest still feeling tired. Other symptoms are morning headaches and daytime sleepiness or fatigue.

Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. Persons with untreated sleep apnea are three times more likely to have car accidents. Fortunately, sleep apnea can be diagnosed during a "sleep study."

Treatment options include the use of mechanical or physical devices and in select persons, surgery. See your physician immediately if you have any of these symptoms.

Elizabeth D. Duenas, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.