Sleep Apnea: Who Is At Risk?

Sleep apnea can occur in all types of individuals, of all ages, but there are some obvious factors which increase risk.

• It is much more common in men
• It is more common in middle age and beyond
• It is more common in overweight people
• Sleep apnea sufferers are often particularly overweight around the neck and face

It is thought that women may suffer from less from sleep apnea because of progesterone levels. This might explain why sleep apnea is most common in the female population amongst older, post-menopausal women (whose levels of progesterone are lower).

• Several factors can increase your chances of suffering from sleep apnea:
• Putting on weight, particularly around the neck
• High blood pressure (or does suffering from sleep apnea increase blood pressure? this is a chicken and egg situation!)
• Nose and throat infections and obstructions
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• The use of sleeping pills or other sleep-inducing narcotics

See also:

Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain