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Sleep Apnea is a condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last for a very brief period, or they can extend for so long that the amount of oxygen in the blood drops dangerously low. Apnea can occur in both adults and children, but it is most common in adults. There are two main types of apnea: obstructive and central. Obstructive apnea is the more common type, and it occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep. Central apnea is less common, and it occurs when the brain fails to send signals to the muscles that control breathing. Apnea treatment typically involves the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which helps to keep the airway open during sleep.
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