Proverbs 5:12

August 2026

“The sleep of a laborer is sweet, whether he eats little or much, 

but the abundance of a rich man permits him no sleep.”   Proverbs 5:12

Sleep apnea is a medical problem characterized by the interruption of breathing during sleep. It’s a problem that, if left untreated, can lead to some very serious health issues.

The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This problem is characterized by a blockage of the airway that allows us to breathe. There are a number of factors that may cause blockage in OSA. Deformation of the jaw, large uvula, excess weight, deformation of the nasal cavity and allergies are some of the more common reasons people experience this disorder.

Another type of apnea is called central sleep apnea. This condition occurs when the brain’s breathing signaling goes awry, causing the afflicted person to stop breathing without any physical airway obstructions. 

Although sleep apnea is a fairly common problem, causes are considered to present a risk when a person is found to have periods of apnea lasting 10 seconds or longer and suffer frequent episodes throughout the night. When apneas occur, the afflicted person wakes from sleep, gasping for air. These attacks can cause irritation due to friction of the uvula and soft palate, causing those who suffer from sleep apnea to wake in the morning with a sore throat. 

It should also be noted that several related health concerns can be caused by sleep apnea including snoring, daytime fatigue, and headaches.

If you think you suffer from sleep apnea, there’s a simple test that can confirm the condition. The polysomnography test is an overnight study, conducted while you sleep. The test is painless and is covered by many insurance carriers.

If sleep apnea is confirmed, there are several treatment methods available. One common one is CPAP, or “continuous positive airway pressure”. The treatment is performed via an air compressor that forces air into the airway on a continual basis, ensuring sound breathing. 

If you think you may have sleep apnea, it’s important to see your doctor and take the test. The long-term effects of sleep apnea include an irregular heartbeat, an increased chance of hypertension, and stroke.

Treatment options are easy & readily available. So don’t sleep on it -get help as soon as possible. 

“My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth… He who watches over you will not slumber; He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.”    Psalm 121:2-4