Central sleep apnea

What is Central Sleep Apnea?

Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep due to a failure in the brain's signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway is physically blocked, central sleep apnea occurs when the brain doesn't send the proper signals to the muscles, resulting in a pause in breathing for a few seconds to minutes

CSA can happen when the brainstem, responsible for regulating involuntary functions like breathing, fails to send consistent signals to the respiratory muscles. This leads to disrupted sleep patterns, decreased oxygen levels in the blood, and poor-quality sleep, which can cause daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other health issues

Common symptoms of central sleep apnea include loud snoring, abrupt awakenings with shortness of breath, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty staying asleep. However, CSA is often harder to diagnose since its symptoms are less obvious than those of obstructive sleep apnea

Several factors can contribute to central sleep apnea, including heart failure, stroke, high altitudes, or certain medications that affect the brain’s ability to regulate breathing. It is more commonly seen in individuals with underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease or those who are older

Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study (polysomnography), where the patient's breathing patterns are monitored overnight. Treatment for CSA often involves addressing the underlying condition, using devices like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV), or in some cases, medications

Understanding central sleep apnea and its potential causes can help individuals seek timely medical advice and improve their overall sleep health. If you suspect CSA, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment