The constant and chronic lack of oxygen that one gets when breathing stops at night are the biggest sleep apnea risks.  Treatment options may include forcing air into the nasal passages such as from using a CPAP machine, but usually doctors try to address the reasons why the air passages are collapsing and being constricted at night. 

Obesity is one common cause of sleep apnea as excessive tissue around the neck closes up this area and cut off the airway.  People who are overweight and especially those whose weight can be classified as obese suffer the greatest sleep apnea risks; treatment options for them will of course start with weight loss.  Very often there's little a doctor can do to force air into their nasal cavities or their mouth if their own weight is crushing this area.

When it comes to sleep apnea risks and treatment options for those who are not overweight or obese, it's good to consider any problems with the sinuses or nasal cavities; some people have excess tissue in the roof and back of their mouth and throat.  This tissue can cut off the airway when a person sleeps on their back and cause sleep apnea.  Usually a dentist or oral surgeon can cut away this tissue rather easily; most today use a laser rather than a scalpel and do the procedure on an outpatient basis.  This cuts their sleep apnea risks; treatment is quick, relatively painless, has very little bleeding or scarring and most patients can return to their normal routine the next day and regular eating patterns within a few days. 

For other causes of sleep apnea risks, treatment options might include a mouth device that one usually uses for snoring or topical treatments in the form of sprays, drops, and pills.A doctor can properly assess your sleep apnea risks; treatment options should then be discussed between the two of you.