Who is More Likely to Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Being overweight – obesity is a major risk factor, although thin people can develop severe sleep apnea also.
Nasal congestion or obstruction – sinus trouble or allergies.
Large tonsils and/or adenoids, having a “crowded throat”, a large tongue or small jaw.
Family history.
Drinking alcohol
TMJ and jaw pain.
Bruxism (teeth grinding).
Lung disease, atrial fibrillation and heart failure.
Scoliosis or muscle weakness.
Sedating medicines and alcohol.
Hypothyroidism and certain other endocrine (hormonal) disorders.
Increasing age.
Malformation of the orofacial area (misaligned teeth, jaw, palate).
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
Menopause.
Progesterone/Estrogen deficiency.
Anatomy and physiology of the airway.
Male gender.
Neck size >17 inches in men, and >15 inches in women.
A decrease in tone of muscles holding airway open.
Smoking.