Sleep apnea is a major problem for many people, resulting in problems in many areas of their lives.
This problem is common in overweight people with thick necks. The fat in the neck places pressure on the trachea, resulting in snoring, and disruptive sleep. Oxygen levels drop, placing strain on the heart.
Any neck diameter of over 16 inches in women, and 17 inches in men is a potential problem.
Lack of sleep slows reactions to the point of increasing the chance of having a car accident by 74%.
Reaction tests are used where a ruler is held vertical in front of the patient and let go. Those with normal reactions will catch the ruler at the 11cm level. A typical sleep deprived response will be at 20cm.
Healthy adults need 6 to 8 hours of quality sleep a night. Other major causes of disruptive sleep are smoking, and drinking after 6pm. For more on sleep apnea