Sleep apnea refers to any one of the common disorders that result from pauses during your breathing while you sleep. There are many possible contributing factors that could cause your breathing to be disrupted. However, it is crucial to speak with your healthcare provider about the potential risks posed by this pausing of breath. Sleep apnea may cause you to feel tired or depressed - at worst, however, the risks of sleep apnea can be fatal. If you are experiencing sleep apnea, speak to your healthcare professional about potential treatments that are right for you.