According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 38,000 people die each year from complications of sleep apnea. Snoring is the most common sign of sleep apnea – when you actually stop breathing while asleep. People who snore are either unaware of their snoring habits or are in denial and "this can cost them their life," according to Dr. Madani, an internationally known surgeon who concentrates his research on finding new methods to treat this condition.

Researchers are now discovering correlations between sleep apnea and several medical conditions such as heart attack, stroke, depression, impotence, hypertension, memory loss, chronic fatigue syndrome and daytime sleepiness. The risk increases with age, body weight and having other medical conditions. Socially, the families suffer tremendously from inadequate sleep, separation and even divorce. Ignorance or being unaware of the potential risks and complications of snoring and sleep apnea can make a ghost out of you. Technology and the know-how are available for those who realize the risk to their life, socially and physically.

"The message is simple: Snoring is not only scary but also deadly," adds Dr. Madani. If you snore, you should seek a medical opinion.