sleep apnea

[sleep ap-nee-uh]

noun

Pathology.

1. a condition in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep due to blockage of the upper airway, causing frequent momentary or partial waking: often a result of obesity or neurological impairment and typically associated with sleepiness during the day.

sleep apnea

1. Apnea caused by upper airway obstruction during sleep, associated with frequent awakening and often with daytime sleepiness. It occurs most often in people who are obese or who have an obstructed respiratory tract or neurological abnormalities.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sleep apnea¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

He also suffered multiple health issues — neurogenerative disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic respiratory failure and chronic kidney disease — before his death.

From Los Angeles Times

That medical history could show other conditions such as sleep apnea that can influence memory.

From Los Angeles Times

Brian Bent died of sleep apnea at 29 and Terry Baker of cancer at 43.

From Los Angeles Times

That points to long-term reductions in users’ vulnerability to the whole spectrum of obesity-related medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, bad knees and sleep apnea.

From Los Angeles Times

When patients come in with obesity and other related chronic conditions like high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels and sleep apnea, many doctors prescribe drugs for each condition.

From New York Times