Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder. People with obstructive sleep apnea stop breathing and start breathing repeatedly while they sleep.

There are different types of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax and block the airway. This happens again and again during sleep. Snoring is a sign of obstructive sleep apnea.

There are treatments available for obstructive sleep apnea. One treatment involves a device that uses positive pressure to keep your airways open while you sleep. Another option is a mouthpiece to push your lower jaw forward while you sleep. For some people, surgery may also be an option.