Sleep apnea can be a dangerous syndrome that can cause life-threatening issues such as low blood oxygen levels and even heart failure. It can also cause a person many issues that may not be life threatening, but can greatly diminish one's quality of life. Some of these include, respiratory issues, nasal issues, morning headaches and a feeling of tiredness. It can cause narcolepsy or excessive daytime sleepiness. 

One of the first ways that a person can deal with this condition is by seeing their physician. Generally, this may involve a sleep study so that it can be determined that one is suffering with the issue and to determine the type of apnea they have. There are two main types that effect most persons, either obstructive sleep apnea or central sleep apnea. With obstructive sleep apnea a person is experiencing some type of physical block that results in their trouble breathing while they are sleeping, which can result in loud snoring. Central sleep apnea is a condition where there is a lack of respiratory effort. It is important that a determination be made on which type one has so that medical treatment can be begun.

Recognizing that one has risk factors for the condition can be key to prevention. Many children may have enlarged tonsils or a large tongue, which can be a sign they may develop the condition. In addition, persons who are severely obese have high blood pressure, drink alcohol or smoke may also experience problems with this sleep disorder as well.

For those who have the condition there are many things that they can do on their own to help in dealing with this syndrome. One of the main things a person can do is to take care of themselves in a healthy way. By eating a healthy diet and exercising on a regular basis, one will find that their symptoms may decrease. These positive changes to one's lifestyle can also be beneficial in limiting one's issues with weight gain or high blood pressure and this can be helpful in dealing with their sleeping disorder. 

It is important that those men and women, who have this condition, try the various types of sleep apnea prevention techniques that their doctor offers and that they can find on their own. Many have found that changing the way they sleep, elevating their head or using a different type of pillow can limit the effects of the condition. This can be a great benefit when one is trying to get a good night's sleep.