There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive and central. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax and droop during sleep, blocking the airway and causing breathing difficulty. It is by far the most common form of the disorder. Central sleep apnea is the result of the brain failing to properly control breathing during sleep, and is rare. The remainder of this article deals with obstructive sleep apnea.
The main sign of sleep apnea is chronic, loud snoring. Symptoms include daytime drowsiness, lack of concentration, memory loss, irritability, and depression. You may experience frequent morning headaches and sore throats, and wake up with a dry mouth. Those who are male, overweight, and older than the age of 40 are most at risk, though sleep apnea can – and does – affect people of both sexes, and all ages. Other factors that can contribute to sleep apnea include natural aging, excessive or bulky throat tissue, large soft palate or uvula, small jaw, large neck, and oversized tonsils or adenoids. Allergies, sinus infections, tobacco use, and alcohol all may play a role, as well.