Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) - When the airway becomes blocked by soft tissue during sleep not allowing them to take in a breath for at least 10 seconds at a time. Characterized by very loud snoring with silent pauses for 10 seconds or longer followed by a loud snore or snort when the seal is finally broken and the person begins to breathe again.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness.
• Hypertension.
• Morning headaches.
• Memory loss.
• Mood swings.
• Increased risk of Stroke.
• Increased risk of heart disease.

Risk Groups:

• Over weight people with BMI greater than 25.
• People with large neck size. Greater than 17 in. for men and 16 in. for women.
• Children who snore with enlarged tonsils and adenoids.
• Children and adults with Down Syndrome.
• Congenital abnormalities in jaw, head and neck.
• Post menopausal women.
• Men, middle aged and older.