What Is Sleep Apnea

"What is sleep apnea?" That's usually the first question that overweight snorers ask when you suggest that they might have a mild case of it. Although plenty of information on sleep apnea is published on a regular basis, many overweight people are still unaware that snoring is a form of apnea. And it's the direct result of obstructive breathing in addition to a slight disruption in heart activity. Medically defined in information packets and brochures, sleep apnea is a transient cessation of respiration. In layman's terms, it's a short period in which its sufferer stops breathing.

People who suffer from sleep apnea are prone to excessive sleepiness, an overweight or obese figure, and they may also experience heart problems, hypertension and/or stroke. If you snore, or you know someone who snores, you can now understand that the seemingly mild snoring (obstructive breathing) isn't something to take lightly. It's actually a sleeping disorder.

During a bout of mild or severe sleep apnea (or snoring), the body is essentially unable to get a proper amount of oxygen because of obstructive tissue existing in the nose and/or throat. When the body is denied this oxygen, the heart stops for a moment. Fortunately, extensive research and information provides us with effective treatment. One treatment is the use of a CPAP machine. This machine provides air pressure that force air past obstructive tissues so that we breathe normally during sleep.

See Also: Serious Treatment for Sleep Apnea

About The Author:
Nicole Miller is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.sleep-disorders-help.com.