By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Most people are aware that sleep apnea is a sleep disorder, and many know it’s linked with snoring, but that is all many people understand. There is much more to know about it.

A person with sleep apnea struggles to move air efficiently through the body at night. When many are getting restful sleep these individuals are actually putting more stress on their body.

Recent studies have linked sleep apnea to elevations in blood pressure as well as cardiovascular issues. The best advice I have for you is to consider these key questions:

Do you snore? Are you overweight? Does your snoring bother other people? Are you tired after sleeping? Are you tired during the day? Have you ever fallen asleep while driving?

If the answers are yes to some or all of these questions, it is worth talking to your doctor. The good news is that there are effective treatments out there that can be helpful.