What is central sleep apnea?
Central sleep apnea is a disorder in which your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
Central sleep apnea occurs because your brain doesn't send proper signals to the muscles that control your breathing. This condition is different from obstructive sleep apnea, in which you can't breathe normally because of upper airway obstruction.Central sleep apnea is less common than obstructive sleep apnea.
Central sleep apnea can result from other conditions, such as heart failure and stroke. Another possible cause is sleeping at a high altitude.
Treatments for central sleep apnea might involve treating existing conditions, using a device to assist breathing or using supplemental oxygen.
Common signs and symptoms of central sleep apnea include:
- Observed episodes of not breathing or abnormal breathing patterns during sleep
- Abrupt awakenings accompanied by shortness of breath
- Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
- Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes
- Morning headaches
- Snoring
When to see a doctor
Consult a medical professional if you have — or if your partner notices — any signs or symptoms of central sleep apnea, particularly the following:
- Shortness of breath that awakens you from sleep
- Pauses in your breathing during sleep
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Excessive daytime drowsiness, which may cause you to fall asleep while you're working, watching television or even driving
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/central-sleep-apnea/symptoms-
causes/syc-20352109
