Central Sleep Apnea
What is Central Sleep Apnea?
Central sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where the brain temporarily fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing during sleep. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, where airflow is blocked due to airway obstruction, central sleep apnea occurs because of a lack of respiratory effort. It can lead to pauses in breathing, resulting in disrupted sleep and decreased oxygen levels.
Causes of Central Sleep Apnea:
- Heart failure: Reduced heart function can disrupt the brain's control of breathing
- Stroke or brain stem injury: Damage to areas of the brain that regulate breathing
- Chronic lung diseases: Conditions like COPD may increase the risk of central sleep apnea
- High-altitude living: Can lead to periodic breathing and central sleep apnea
- Opioid use: Medications like painkillers can interfere with normal breathing patterns during sleep
Common Signs and Symptoms:
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Frequent awakenings throughout the night
- Difficulty staying asleep or feeling unrested
- Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Shortness of breath during sleep
- Snoring or choking sensations during sleep
Popular Treatment Methods:
- Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy: Devices like CPAP or BiPAP to help maintain regular breathing during sleep
- Adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV): A device that adjusts air pressure to normalize breathing patterns
- Oxygen therapy: In cases of low oxygen levels, supplemental oxygen may be prescribed
- Medications: Specific drugs may be used to stimulate breathing
- Lifestyle changes: Weight management, avoiding alcohol, and improving sleep hygiene
Central sleep apnea can be managed with the right treatment, improving sleep quality and reducing associated health risks.