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Sleep in normal adults is accompanied by relaxation of the muscles that stiffen and open the throat. This relaxation of the airway produces a narrowing, that in some people is great enough that breathing becomes difficult. In response, the body puts forth more effort to breathe. This increased effort can produce brief awakenings from sleep (micro-arousals) that serve to re-open the airway fully. These awakenings are so brief that most people will be totally unaware that they are occurring.
This pattern can then repeat itself throughout the night resulting in dozens, sometimes hundreds of awakenings from sleep that produce disruption and poor quality sleep. Sleep apnea consists of full airway closures, termed apnea, or partial airway closures. These events are often accompanied by a lack of oxygen as well.
Sleep apnea can be a risk factor for high blood pressure (hypertension), cardiovascular disease, heart failure, heart attack and stroke. Daytime symptoms can also include excessive sleepiness or fatigue, low energy levels, lethargy, mood changes, depression and irritability. Memory and concentration problems can also be common.
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