Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person repeatedly stops breathing during sleep. Each pause in breathing can last for several seconds to minutes, and may occur dozens of times per night. sleep apnea usually is caused by obstructed airways. When sleep apnea occurs, the breathing pauses or becomes very shallow. This leads to reductions in oxygen levels in the blood. sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have many consequences if left untreated. People with sleep apnea are at increased risk for high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems. sleep apnea also can cause or worsen other health problems such as migraines, depression, and irregular heartbeat. If you think you might have sleep apnea, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Treatments for sleep apnea range from simple lifestyle changes to surgeries. Effective treatments can improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of heart disease and other complications.