When people snore, some see it as a hilarious thing, but the truth is, snoring should not be taken lightly. Frequent snoring could be a case of obstructive sleep apnea, the condition is connected either directly or indirectly to a wide variety of diseases which include hypertension, heart disease, asthma, and even type 2 diabetes. Obstructive sleep apnea is quite common, and with its association with the mentioned health conditions, immediate attention is absolutely necessary.

Like any other medical condition, sleep apnea has risk factors, that make some persons more susceptible to it than others Here are three of the most recognized ones:

Gender – Men are at a significantly higher risk of developing obstructive apnea than women, because they tend to have larger necks and much more heft. Furthermore, middle-aged men have been found to be twice as likely to contract the condition, according to data from the American Lung Association. This doesn’t mean, however, that women are completely invulnerable to it—the risk multiplies in females who gain weight and develop larger necks right after menopause.

Obesity – This is perhaps the most profound risk factor there is, as about half of all obstructive sleep apnea sufferers are overweight. This happens when excess fat is deposited in the upper portions of the airway, which can obstruct breathing. Fats around the abdomen also create risks, though it’s best to remember that even skinny people can develop OSA if they have specific anatomical properties in their airways that can block the air.

Family History – People who hail from families with profound snorers are also more likely to develop the condition. This doesn’t mean, however, that OSA is passed on from parents to children. Family history is considered a risk factor since specific anatomical features can be passed on to children, which increase their risk of developing OSA later on.

There are far more risk factors out there, though the mentioned ones are considered the most common. If you fit one, two, or all of the descriptions, then it wouldn’t hurt to visit a local sleep apnea and TMJ treatment center near you, such as Bay Area TMJ and Sleep Center, which primarily serves Brandon. Don’t wait until a major problem occurs. As the old adage goes, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.