Definition:
Central sleep apnea is a condition characterized by breathing disturbances in sleep, often as a result of respirator weakness.
Diagnosis:
Diagnostic steps to determine central sleep apnea may include: nocturnal polysomnography or nighttime monitoring of heart, brain, or lung activity and other associated functions; blood oxygen monitoring (oximetry); as well as portable breathing (cardiorespiratory) testing.
Treatment:
General therapy for central sleep apnea mostly focuses on treating underlying conditions. Some techniques used are: reduction of opioid medications that may possibly cause sleep apnea; supplemental oxygen; medications to stimulate breathing; continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP); bilevel positive airway pressure (bilevel PAP); as well as adaptive servo-ventilation.
Symptoms and Signs:
Common signs of central sleep apnea include: episodes of halted breathing during sleep; abnormal breathing while sleeping; abrupt awakenings accompanied by shortness of breath; insomnia or difficulty staying asleep; hypersomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness; momentary shortness of breath at night; and loss of concentration. Other symptoms associated with neurological-related central sleep apnea include: lightheadedness on standing up from a sitting or lying position; swallowing difficulties; as well as numbness or general weakness throughout the body. Additionally, patients with sleep apnea typically snore.
Causes:
A number of factors may cause central sleep apnea, including heart failure and the presence of underlying neurological conditions such as a stroke or Shy-Drager syndrome. In addition, sleeping at high altitudes may also trigger the condition.
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