Sleep apnea is characterized by potentially life threatening pauses in breathing. Left untreated, it may lead to dangerous medical problems. It's also more common than most people realize. Some 12 million Americans may be affected. But many don't even know it - especially women.
A middle aged man with a weight issue who snores fits the classic case of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which the airway collapses and blocks breathing. Laurie Peltz was shocked when she was hit with the same diagnosis. "Sleep apnea is not something that really comes into your head," said Peltz.
Her symptoms didn't send up an urgent, red flag. Peltz was snoring a bit and waking up tired and grumpier than usual. Then there was a scare.
"I woke up not able to take in a breath. I felt like it was closed off," said Peltz.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious disorder that can strike anyone at any age. The best known risk factors are being male, overweight and 40 or older.
