There are two main types:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The more common form, caused by airway blockage, often due to the collapse of soft tissue in the throat.

• Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Less common, caused by the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and daytime fatigue, making it a potentially life-threatening condition.

Symptoms:

• Loud, chronic snoring, often interrupted by gasping or choking sounds

• Pauses in breathing during sleep (usually noticed by a partner)

• Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep

• Morning headaches or dry mouth

• Difficulty concentrating and irritability during the day