Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. This condition is typically caused by the relaxation of the muscles in the throat and the obstruction of the airway, leading to periods of shallow breathing or complete pauses in breathing. Sleep apnea can result in poor sleep quality, excessive daytime sleepiness, and other health issues if left untreated. Treatment options for sleep apnea may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, as well as the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines or oral appliances. Research in this area aims to understand the mechanisms of sleep apnea, improve diagnostic methods, and develop more effective treatments for this condition.