What is Sleep Apnea?

Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) / Otolaryngology
Sleep Center

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing stops and starts throughout the night while sleeping. This deprives your brain and body of oxygen which can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • Snoring, choking or gasping while sleeping
  • Waking up with a dry mouth
  • Stopping breathing
  • Frequently waking up
  • Difficulty staying asleep / insomnia
  • Morning headaches
  • Irritability and moodiness
  • Daytime tiredness or falling asleep
  • Difficulty paying attention during the day
Sleepy woman
Man with sleep disorder

Common forms of sleep apnea and causes

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea and occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax and block the flow of air into the lungs.

Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain messes up the signals to the muscles that control breathing.