People with sleep apnea may have different complaints and symptoms. Frequent awaking, sleep deprivation, daylight sleepiness are frequently stated complaints. In addition, concentration impairment may cause social problems such as a decrease in work and school success.

Sleep test (Polysomnography, PSG) is made after the examination of Otorhinolaryngology and Chest Diseases in patients with the above-mentioned complaints. For this test, the patient stays in a center with a specially prepared sleeping room overnight. During sleep, parameters such as sleep quality, respiratory changes, oxygen changes in the blood during sleep, and the number of awakening are evaluated. The findings obtained by the specialist doctor are reported. If the number of apneas occurring during sleep is more than five per hour, the Sleep Apnea disease is diagnosed.

Sleep apnea is more common in overweight and smoking men. However, weight gain is not essential condition for sleep apnea. Having thick belly and neck circumference, and occlusion-sized anatomical changes in nose, nasal cavity, throat and larynx increase the risk of apnea. The risk of sleep apnea also increases for individuals with recessive lower jawbone.

Sleep apnea is a disease that can have dangerous consequences. The repair mechanisms of our body will not work in case of sleep disorder, especially deep sleep disorder. The development of diseases such as low oxygen, diabetes due to hormonal deterioration, and high blood pressure can be triggered. Studies show that individuals with sleep apnea have an increased risk of stroke due to clots in the brain.

Sleep apnea is a treatable disease. The person with obstructive sleep apnea should lose weight, if he/she is overweight. Even a 10 percent weight loss will provide serious relief in complaints. The habits such as smoking and alcohol that cause swelling and shortness in the respiratory passage should be given up. The use of drugs that may affect sleep should be regulated. Before sleep, eating and exercising should be avoided. In the next stage, the use of a CPAP device may be required depending on the severity of the apnea. If the patient has anatomical stenosis that needs to be corrected in the Ear, Nose and Throat examination, surgical options may be an alternative treatment according to the severity of the apnea and the patient's preference. In the selection of treatment, it is appropriate for the doctor and the patient to decide together with the sleep test and current examination findings.

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that needs to be treated. In untreated cases, it causes chronic disorders such as diabetes and high blood pressure. There are scientific articles indicating that the risk of clotting to the brain, stroke and death increases in patients with severe sleep apnea. Concentration impairment leads to a decrease in school and business success as well as an increase in home and vehicle accidents.