Sleep Apnea

Does someone you know snore a lot? Though throwing a pillow at them or slapping them in the face might quiet them for a little bit, they will eventually start again (hopefully you fall asleep before that happens). This night might not be a case of just snoring, it could be sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a disorder caused by a blockage of the airway during sleep, resulting in daytime fatigue.
I have first-hand experience of this. My dad has sleep apnea and it affects more than just him. When I'm with him, there is no chance of falling asleep. Whenever my family used to go camping or stayed in a hotel room, I had to try to fall asleep right away or else I would be up all night. It was terrible. Here's an example of sleep apnea http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etZ5uHHIyRM. Can you imagine trying to sleep during this? It sounds like a bear sleeping. My dad finally got diagnosed a few years ago so now it isn't so bad. Sleep apnea affects 2-20% of the general population. It is characterized by instances of low breathing during sleep that can last from a few seconds to minutes, and may occur 5 to 30 times or more an hour. This is very dangerous because your body still needs oxygen while you sleep, and if your body doesn't get necessary oxygen, it can be negatively affected.
Weight is often associated with sleep apnea, so doctors typically recommend weight loss as a first treatment, my dad could use that. Now my dad sleeps with a face mask that blows air into his nasal passages. My mom says he sounds like she's sleeping next to Darth Vader. I strongly suggest keeping your weight down so not only you sleep well and healthy, but so you don't have to wear a mask sleeping next to your partner.