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Sleep apnea refers to periodic and recurrent reduction or suspension of breathing when a person is sleeping
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Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) refers to the condition where the muscles of your throat relax and block the airway in an on-and-off fashion while you’re asleep
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Multiple etiological factors can lead to obstructive sleep apnea, namely, obesity, which is a major risk factor
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Others include enlarged tonsils, commonly seen in children. The male gender is more susceptible to developing OSA
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Nasal obstruction due to nasal deformities, inflammation, rhinitis, polyps, and adenoids can also cause obstructive sleep apnea
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Factors such as smoking, menopause, a family history of sleep apnea, and advancing age can also contribute to the development of this condition
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Abnormalities in the endocrine system like increased levels of growth hormone (acromegaly) or reduced levels of thyroid hormones can also lead to OSA
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Drugs that depress your respiratory system like alcohol, strong sedatives, or pain-relieving medication can result in OSA as well
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The persons affected may snore loudly, have restless sleep or no sleep at all, have morning headaches or dry throat
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Weight reduction and alcohol cessation can help in conservatively managing this condition. Nasal surgery may be required in some