Apnea

File:Snoring under severe sleep apnoea - 1741-7015-9-17.oga Apnea is a medical condition characterized by the temporary cessation of breathing, especially during sleep. The term is derived from the Greek word "apnoia," meaning "without breath." Apnea can occur in various forms, including obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and complex sleep apnea syndrome.

Types of Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, causing a blockage of the airway. This leads to repeated episodes of breathing cessation and can result in fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels in the blood.

Central Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common and occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike OSA, there is no physical blockage of the airway. CSA is often associated with certain medical conditions, such as heart failure and stroke.

Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Complex sleep apnea syndrome, also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, is a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea. It is diagnosed when a person with OSA develops central sleep apnea during treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

Symptoms

Common symptoms of apnea include:

• Loud snoring
• Episodes of breathing cessation during sleep, witnessed by another person
• Abrupt awakenings accompanied by shortness of breath
• Morning headache
• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of apnea typically involves a sleep study, known as polysomnography. During this test, various physiological parameters are monitored while the patient sleeps, including brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, and oxygen levels. Home sleep apnea testing (HSAT) is also an option for some patients.

Treatment

Treatment for apnea depends on the type and severity of the condition. Common treatments include:

• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
• Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) therapy
• Oral appliances designed to keep the airway open
• Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, avoiding alcohol, and quitting smoking
• Surgery to remove or reduce tissue in the airway

Complications

If left untreated, apnea can lead to various complications, including:

• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Liver problems
• Complications with medications and surgery

See Also

• Sleep disorder
• Insomnia
• Hypersomnia
• Polysomnography
• Continuous positive airway pressure