There are many types of sleeping disorders affecting the quality of life of more than 20 million Americans and quite possibly shortening their lives. One of the areas of sleep disorders is obstructive sleep apnea. It is a very common and potentially life-threatening medical disorder that prevents airflow during sleep. Sleep apnea occurs when tissue in the back of the throat collapses and blocks the airway, reducing the amount of oxygen delivered to all of your organs, including your heart and brain. People with sleep apnea may snore loudly and stop breathing for short periods of time. When the blood-oxygen level drops low enough, the body momentarily wakes up.