Sleep apnea occurs when loud snoring is interrupted by moments of obstructed breathing. It can lead to serious health problems such as stroke and heart attack. It can also impair your job performance and put you at greater risk for auto accidents.

Snorers who suffer from sleep apnea don't achieve a deep sleep pattern because a free, uninterrupted flow of oxygen can't reach their brain. The tension of constant tightening of the muscles in response to lack of oxygen prevents deep sleep levels, causing the snorer to feel tired throughout the day. Snorers with sleep apnea often feel drowsy during sedentary activities such as reading or driving.

The symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Frequent nighttime waking
• Waking yourself up with your own snoring
• Spouse complains about your loud and/or constant snoring
• Spouse is tired and grumpy from disturbed sleep
• Waking up with a sore and/or dry throat
• Waking up with a choking or gasping feeling
• Chest pressure or pain at night
• Chronic daytime sleepiness and fatigue
• Morning headaches
• Forgetfulness
• Mood changes
• Excessive caffeine
• Uncontrollable weight gain