sleep
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, occur when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, causing a temporary blockage or narrowing of the upper airway. As a result, airflow is restricted or stops, which can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood and disrupt the normal sleep cycle.
The episodes of apnea can last from a few seconds to a minute and may occur multiple times throughout the night. Symptoms of OSA include:
