Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by a brief lack of communication between the brain and the muscles that control breathing. This results in repetitive pauses in breathing, leading to fragmented sleep and a range of potential health issues. It is estimated to affect about 0.9% of people over 40 years old in the United States and is often tied to an underlying health condition. If left unaddressed, CSA can lead to daytime drowsiness, cognitive problems, and an increased risk of errors and accidents.
Types of Central Sleep Apnea
There are various types of CSA, including:
Cheyne-Stokes respiration: This type of CSA is characterized by a distinctive breathing pattern that alternates between deep and shallow breathing, or even temporary cessation of breathing.
High-altitude periodic breathing: This form of CSA can occur shortly after a healthy person has ascended to a high altitude, where the air has a lower concentration of oxygen. In response, a person’s breathing becomes faster and deeper and can pause during sleep.
Treatment-emergent central sleep apnea: In some people, CSA develops during positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. This type of CSA is estimated to occur in 5% to 15% of people.
Symptoms
The symptoms of CSA can include observed episodes of not breathing during sleep, sudden awakenings with shortness of breath, insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, trouble focusing, mood changes, morning headaches, and snoring (which may not be as prominent as in obstructive sleep apnea).
Causes
CSA can result from various conditions, including heart failure, stroke, and sleeping at a high altitude. It can also be induced by certain medications, such as opioids, which can cause irregular or stopped breathing for a short time.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing CSA often requires a sleep study, as many individuals may not have noticeable symptoms. Treatment may involve managing underlying conditions, using a device to assist breathing, or using supplemental oxygen. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy and adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV) are common treatments for CSA.
Complications
CSA is associated with complications such as cardiovascular problems, including an increased risk of irregular heart rhythms due to repeated episodes of low blood oxygen. The condition can also lead to fragmented sleep, daytime drowsiness, and an elevated risk of errors and accidents.
In conclusion, CSA is a serious sleep disorder that requires medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be experiencing CSA, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate assessment and appropriate management. The impact of CSA on an individual’s overall health and well-being underscores the importance of raising awareness about this condition and ensuring timely intervention for those affected.