These days, almost everyone has heard the term “sleep apnea” in one place or another, whether on the news, from a friend or relative, or perhaps by his own own doctor. What is sleep apnea? Who is at risk of developing sleep apnea? Are there any specific signs or symptoms to look for? How is sleep apnea diagnosed? Can we treat it? What additional health problems can arise if the disorder is left untreated? All these questions are vital. Most people have experienced sleep apnea, but many don't know the answers to these important questions, and knowing these answers can help save their own life or the life of a loved one. Sleep apnea syndrome is a sleep disorder marked by repetitive episodes of sleep cessation. of breathing, 10 seconds or more, during sleep. During this time, the individual's oxygen level decreases, leading to hypoxemia and sleep disturbances. (Bencosme, RDH, MA & Castellanos, RDH, MA, 2011) There are several types of sleep apnea, but the most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. It is the result of relaxation of the soft tissues around the airways. in the rear part of the throat, which block the passage of air, causing obstruction. The cessation of breathing throughout the night disrupts sleep and causes episodes of awakening, which can reach hundreds per hour of sleep. These disturbances cause the patient to get up the next morning feeling like they haven't slept at all, and they are usually unaware that they haven't actually slept. There are several risk factors for developing sleep apnea. People who are overweight, especially if they are considered obese or morbid, and those who smoke have a much higher risk of developing sleep apnea. Men have a higher level...... middle of paper...... and are the cause of many other life-threatening diseases. Evidence shows that any case of OSA can become serious if not treated promptly. Anyone with questions regarding this disorder should seek medical attention, as it could help save a life. Works Cited Bencosme, RDH, MA, J., & Castellanos, RDH, MA, S. (2011). Sleep apnea syndrome. RDH, 76-77, 115. Berry, MSN, APRN, ACNP-BC, CCNS, CCRN, D. (2008). Case study: Obstructive sleep apnea. Medsurg Nursing, 11-6; quiz 17. Harrington, J. (2007). Sleep apnea. Cambridge Handbook of Psychology, Health and Medicine, p. 1. Johns, M. W. (1991). A new method for measuring daytime sleepiness: the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Sleep, Vol 6, 540-545.KU Medical Center. (nd). Respiratory Care Training Department. Retrieved from KU Medical Center: http://classes.kumc.edu/cahe/respcared/cybercas/sleepapnea/trenpoly.html