Sleep apnea is a condition in which you stop breathing for short periods of time while sleeping.

There are two main types of apnea:

• Central sleep apnea - occurs when the brain somehow has a disruption in the normal signal to breathe regularly.
• Obstructive sleep apnea - occurs when overly relaxed tissues or muscles in the throat area close off the windpipe.

Although it's a fairly common disorder, apnea can have serious health consequences.

The frequent pauses in breathing restrict the brain's normal supply of oxygen - putting sleep apnea sufferers at an increased risk of strokes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health conditions.

Fortunately, various sleep apnea treatments are available, including:

• Lifestyle changes / behavior modification - for example, losing weight; sleeping in a different position; avoiding alcohol, cigarettes, and sleep medications; and sticking to a regular bedtime and sleep schedule.
• Apnea equipment / appliances - the most common are the continuous positive airway pressure device (CPAP); bilevel positive airway pressure device (biPAP); and dental devices or mouthpieces that keep the airway unobstructed by either bringing the jaw forward, elevating the soft palate, or keeping the tongue from rolling back to the throat.
• Exercises - including "singing" exercises to strengthen the palate; and other exercises to condition the muscles of the throat, jaw and palate.
• Surgery - current methods include implants placed in the soft palate to support the tissues; uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP or “UP3”); laser-assisted uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (or LAUP); tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy; and radio-frequency somnoplasty.