Central Sleep Apnea Causes, Symptoms, Prevention And Treatment

Also Read: Sleep Better: Everything You Need To Know About Sleep 

CSA Syndrome In Adults Is Divided Into Five Categories:  

1. Primary CSA  

This type of breathing consists of repetitive periods of breathing that require no effort. As a result, there is very little airflow.   

2. Cheyne-Stokes Breathing Pattern  

This type of breathing is rhythmic, with a continuous increase (crescendo) in respiratory effort and airflow followed by a decrease (decay) and sometimes no effort or airflow at all. It has been linked to heart failure, stroke and kidney disease.   

3. Non-Cheyne-Stokes Health.   

Central apnea occurs when a disease does not have the typical Cheyne-Stokes breathing pattern. It is caused by problems with the heart and kidneys and problems at the base of the brain, which controls breathing.   

4. High-altitude periodic Breathing  

At altitudes above 15,000 feet, some people may experience a breathing pattern like Cheyne-Stokes. However, there is no history of heart failure, stroke, or kidney failure in these cases. Symptoms often improve as altitude decreases, and the time between breaths tends to be shorter in this condition. 

5. Due To Drug Or Substance  

This type of breathing can range from regular increases and decreases in respiratory effort to completely irregular. Sometimes, obstructions, such as breathing, are seen in OSA. The drugs most associated with this central pattern of sleep apnea fall into the opioid category. Examples include prescription painkillers or illegal substances such as heroin.  

Also Read: Why Should You Use A Sleep Tracker? 

Central Sleep Apnea Causes  

Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a group of sleep disorders that cause breathing to be reduced or absent during sleep. CSA is caused by the brain temporarily stopping signals to the muscles that control breathing. CSA can be caused by: 

1. Cheyne-Stokes Respiration 

This is a condition in which people experience gradual increases and decreases in airflow, with a period when the airflow completely stops. This is an example of central sleep apnea (CSA), which is concerning because this type of CSA has been linked to congestive heart failure and stroke.   

2. Drug-Induced Central Apnea  

Certain medications can cause central sleep apnea. These drugs may cause breathing to become irregular, stop completely, or become more or less regular.   

3. Ageing 

Age is another reason that can cause complex sleep apnea. Older people are at greater risk of developing this condition due to changes in their breathing control system.   

4. Health Conditions 

People with health conditions such as heart failure, kidney failure, multiple system atrophy, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease are at higher risk of developing central sleep apnea. 

5. Obesity 

Overweight people may experience changes in the way their bodies regulate breathing, which increases the likelihood of developing CSA.   

6. Low Oxygen Levels At High Altitudes 

Irregular breathing can also be caused by high altitude or limited oxygen availability. Low O2 levels cause rapid breathing, hyperventilation, shortness of breath, hypopnea, and even central sleep apnea.   

7. CSA Requiring Treatment  

Some patients with obstructive sleep apnea may develop central sleep apnea while receiving CPAP therapy to treat OSA. This condition, where CSA and OSA are present, is called combined sleep apnea.   

PAP therapy uses a machine that pumps air into your airways to make breathing easier while you sleep. For patients with CSA, one of several types of PAP devices may be recommended, including continuous airway pressure (CPAP), bilevel airway pressure (BiPAP), and adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV).   

2. Supplemental Oxygen 

You may need to use a machine that delivers extra oxygen to your lungs to supplement oxygen while you sleep. Supplemental oxygen may be recommended for patients receiving PAP treatment or for those who do not respond well to PAP treatment.   

3. Medicines  

If PAP therapy and supplemental oxygen do not improve RSA, your doctor may recommend medications that stimulate breathing. Because these medications have side effects, people receiving this form of treatment should be monitored by a doctor.   

4. Irritation Of The Phrenic Nerve 

For people who do not respond to other treatments, doctors may suggest having a breathing stimulation device surgically implanted in the chest. This device stimulates the diaphragm by sending an electric current to the nerve. This causes the diaphragm to contract, like normal breathing.  

Expert’s Advice 

Understanding the complexities of central sleep apnea and exploring available resources and support can be beneficial for those living with this condition. By seeking appropriate treatment and support, individuals can work towards improving their quality of life and reducing the risk of future medical complications. 

Health Expert  
Lavina Chauhan 

The Final Say 

If you suspect any of the symptoms of sleep apnea, it's important to contact your health professional to get diagnosed with a polysomnogram and start treatment as soon as possible. By doing this, you can avoid potential health issues like fatigue and heart problems in the future. Don't delay seeking help if you think you might have this condition. 

FAQs  

1. What are the symptoms of central sleep apnea? 

Symptoms of central sleep apnea include difficulty breathing, insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. 

2. What are the common causes of central sleep apnea? 

Central sleep apnea can be caused by brain problems, medications, high altitude, other medical conditions such as heart failure and obesity.