Sleep apnea is a relatively common condition in which air flow is obstructed for ten seconds or more. It has been estimated that there are more people that have obstructive sleep apnea than the combined number of diabetics and asthmatics in the United States. Sleep apnea is more common in men but can occur in women and children. Symptoms include loud snoring, stopping breathing or gasping for breath, and sleepiness during the daytime. Sleep apnea results in lower oxygen levels, increased strain on the heart and lungs, elevated blood pressure and increased risk for driving or work-related accidents due to daytime sleepiness.