If you suffer from COPD, you know how difficult it can be to breathe at times. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is not one singular condition, but a collection of conditions that affect the lungs. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has many causes, including smoking, exposure to chemicals, and more.Another condition that makes it difficult to breathe is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is caused by an obstructed airway when sleeping, which in turn causes difficulty breathing. People with sleep apnea struggle to get air throughout the night, causing snoring, the stopping and restarting of breathing, and frequent waking.Alone, COPD and sleep apnea are dangerous conditions, but when these two conditions combine, it can be an even more dangerous combination. Known as overlap syndrome, both COPD and sleep apnea can occur in the same person, and make symptoms of both conditions much, much worse.So, how common is overlap syndrome in COPD and sleep apnea patients? Experts believe that anywhere between 10 and 15 percent of people with COPD also have sleep apnea. The question is why.While some studies have found that there is no real connection between the two conditions, some researchers believe that factors such as obesity, smoking, and inflammation could be behind the overlap syndrome. Inflammation especially is present in people with either condition, making this connection an even stronger one in those with both. Worse yet, each condition can worsen the inflammation caused by the other, a vicious cycle that can wreak havoc on the patient’s breathing.The good news is that just because you have one of these conditions does not mean you will develop the other, however, it is not uncommon for them to occur together.If you have either or both conditions, it is important to work with your doctor to find a solution that works well with your lifestyle. A mandibular orthotic device from Dr. Peterson is an excellent option. This custom-made device fits your individual mouth and helps to prop your airway open while you sleep, alleviating sleep apnea symptoms. If you have COPD, speak to your physician about your options.