Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, causing the individual to snore loudly or gasp for air during sleep. OSA can significantly impact sleep quality, leading to daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and other health problems. Risk factors for OSA include obesity, age, and family history. Treatment for OSA may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, or medical devices such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines or surgery. It is important to seek medical attention if OSA symptoms occur, as untreated OSA can lead to serious health complications.
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