The second most common form is central sleep apnea (CSA).

Although many people are afflicted with this sleep disorder, they often are unaware that they have it because they are asleep when it occurs.

Who's most likely to have obstructive sleep apnea? -

• Males have OSA more often than females.
• People with large neck measurements are more susceptible than those with small or medium neck measurements.
• Obese individuals are more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea than are thinner ones.
• People who snore (which is one of the primary symptoms of OSA) are more likely to have this disorder.
• People who consume alcoholic beverages.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when a person's windpipe is blocked, causing him or her to stop breathing.

Blockages usually involve the uvula or soft palate area, throat tissues, tongue, or jaw.

Apneic (non-breathing) episodes can occur regularly all night, and last anywhere from a few seconds to more than a minute.

The more frequent and longer-lasting the apneic episodes are, the more dangerous this condition is for the person who suffers from it.

Fortunately, there are a number of options for treating obstructive sleep apnea - including equipment worn during sleep to keep the airways open; exercises to strengthen the muscles and tissues in the airway region; lifestyle changes; and, in more serious cases, various surgical procedures.