For many patients, relatively simple lifestyle changes can make a significant impact on the severity of their sleep disordered breathing. These changes include:

• Weight loss
• Avoidance of sedatives and/or alcohol before bed
• Avoiding sleep on your back

However, if you are not significantly overweight, don't use alcohol/sedatives, or don't sleep on your back, then these changes will have little effect. In cases such as these, you should seek the advice of your family doctor to evaluate for a possible sleep disorder.

While sleep apnea just a few years ago was considered to be a disease of "fat, older men," doctors are now finding significant sleep apnea in thin women and even children.