The different types of sleep apnea: What differentiates obstructive sleep apnea from central sleep apnea

The different types of sleep apnea: what differentiates obstructive sleep apnea from central sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a common disorder that can have significant impacts on health and well-being. Two of the most prevalent types of sleep apnea are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). Understanding the differences between these two conditions is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment .

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Features : Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea accounts for the majority of diagnoses. It occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively during sleep, causing a narrowing or obstruction of the airway. This obstruction leads to recurring pauses in breathing, often accompanied by loud snoring.

Symptoms : Symptoms of OSA may include loud snoring, frequent awakenings during the night, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and irritability.

Risk Factors: Obesity, age, male sex, a family history of sleep apnea, the presence of enlarged tonsils, and excessive alcohol consumption are common risk factors associated with OSA.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

Features : Central sleep apnea is less common than obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It occurs when the brain fails to send the appropriate signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. Unlike OSA, there is no physical obstruction of the airways, but rather a malfunction of the respiratory system.

Symptoms : Symptoms of ACS include pauses in breathing during sleep without significant snoring. People with ACS may also experience daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and sometimes frequent awakenings during the night.

Risk Factors: The causes of ACS can be related to health problems such as heart disorders, central nervous system abnormalities, or impaired respiratory control. This type of apnea It can also be caused by taking medications such as opioids.

Apnea

Mixed sleep apnea is a combination of OSA and CSA. Therefore, treatment must be tailored to both types of apnea to be effective.

The right diagnosis for the right treatment

Understanding the differences between obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea is essential for determining the best treatment plan for a patient. This is the role of the respiratory therapists who work at the clinic. accurate diagnosis is crucial for guiding treatment options, which may include the use of a CPAP machine (for OSA), or even lifestyle changes , or even more specific medical interventions .

Professional sleep monitoring during treatment is also essential. That's why we offer regular follow-up appointments. To all our patients who are undergoing treatment with a CPAP machine. We work in collaboration with the treating physicians to ensure a rapid and effective adaptation of the device, and at regular intervals.

If symptoms are present: it is best to consult a doctor.

If you experience symptoms such as loud snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, or excessive daytime fatigue, it's best to consult a healthcare professional specializing in sleep disorders. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are key. can significantly improve quality of life people affected by sleep apnea. Ask to undergo diagnostic testing for sleep apnea, or Contact us for an initial consultation with a respiratory therapist in one of our 6 clinics .