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Understanding Central Sleep Apnea: Causes, Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
- May 1, 2024
- Posted by: SEETHALAKSHMI SIVAKUMAR
- Category: Sleep Disorders

Understanding Central Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, which is caused by a blockage in the airway, central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. This results in interrupted sleep and can lead to a range of health issues if left untreated.
Types of Central Sleep Apnea
There are two common types of central sleep apnea:
1. Primary Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Primary central sleep apnea is not associated with any other medical conditions. It occurs when the brain fails to transmit the appropriate signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. This type of central sleep apnea is relatively rare and often requires specialized treatment.
2. Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome (CompSAS)
Complex sleep apnea syndrome, also known as CompSAS or treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, is a combination of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea. It typically occurs when a person with pre-existing obstructive sleep apnea starts using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. The use of CPAP can sometimes unmask underlying central sleep apnea, resulting in the development of CompSAS.
Symptoms of Central Sleep Apnea
The symptoms of central sleep apnea can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
- Episodes of interrupted breathing during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Waking up with shortness of breath
- Frequent awakenings during the night
- Insomnia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes
- Decreased libido
How to Identify Central Sleep Apnea
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have central sleep apnea, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. The following methods may be used to identify central sleep apnea:
- Medical History: Your doctor will review your medical history and ask about your symptoms.
- Physical Examination: A physical examination may be conducted to check for any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to central sleep apnea.
- Sleep Study: A sleep study, also known as a polysomnography, is the most common method used to diagnose central sleep apnea. This test monitors various aspects of your sleep, including brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, and breathing patterns.
Treatment for Central Sleep Apnea
The treatment for central sleep apnea depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Some common treatment options include:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask over your nose or mouth during sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that delivers a constant flow of air, helping to keep your airway open and prevent pauses in breathing.
- Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): BiPAP therapy is similar to CPAP therapy but delivers two different levels of air pressure—one for inhalation and a lower one for exhalation. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with central sleep apnea who struggle with exhaling against high pressure.
- Adaptive Servo-Ventilation (ASV): ASV therapy is a newer treatment option that uses a device to monitor your breathing patterns and deliver the appropriate amount of air pressure to maintain regular breathing.
- Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help stabilize breathing patterns during sleep. However, medication is typically not the first-line treatment for central sleep apnea and is often used in combination with other therapies.
- Lifestyle Changes: Making certain lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and sleeping on your side, may also help improve symptoms of central sleep apnea.
It is important to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.