How does your sleep position affect your health? Here are considerations for maximizing your sleep...
Read MoreIf you suffer from central sleep apnea, getting a good night’s sleep might be difficult. Inspira is here to help.
What is Central Sleep Apnea?
Central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when your breathing pauses periodically during sleep. In some cases, people with CSA don’t stop breathing, but instead experience rapid, shallow breathing, which can result in an overall lack of oxygen.
The core difference between central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) lies in what causes them: OSA is a mechanical problem—it happens when your airway is physically blocked. CSA, on the other hand, occurs when the signal for your lungs to inhale isn’t properly transmitted to your brain. Though CSA is less common, this form of the disorder can be just as dangerous.
What are Central Sleep Apnea’s Symptoms?
Unlike OSA, central sleep apnea rarely causes snoring. Intermittent pauses in breathing are the main symptom of central sleep apnea, but this lack of quality sleep can also cause secondary symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue
- Trouble focusing
- Waking during the night
- Headaches
- Lack of energy
Risk factors for central sleep apnea include:
- Heart disorders, like atrial fibrillation or congestive heart failure
- Stroke, brain tumor or a structural brainstem lesion
- Opioid use
- Use of a CPAP machine
- High altitude
- Age (65+)
- Gender (Males are more likely to develop CSA)
How is Central Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
To test for CSA, your physician may refer you to a specialist to conduct an in-lab sleep apnea test. A polysomnogram, or sleep study, is a comprehensive test that transmits and records specific physical activities while you sleep, such as your heart rate, brain activity, eye movement and oxygen levels, through a series of electronic sensors placed on your legs, head and chest.
Central Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
If you are diagnosed with CSA, there are a variety of potential treatments your doctor may recommend. First and foremost, it’s helpful to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This means keeping fit, avoiding alcohol and other depressants and getting plenty of rest. Other treatment options include:
three
Adaptive-servo Ventilation
Also known as ASV, adaptive-servo ventilation is a device that aides in treating central sleep apnea. ASV is non-invasive and promotes steady breathing patterns during sleep.
Implantable device
Those who cannot tolerate a CPAP may be candidates for a device implanted in the body that sends an electrical signal to the nerve that controls the diaphragm that can help to stimulate breathing.
Medication
Some oral medications, such as acetazolamide, can be used to help stimulate breathing in those who suffer from CSA.
What Sets Inspira’s CSA Treatments Apart?
Inspira’s five sleep center locations have the cutting-edge technology and experienced providers to get you the high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic care you need and deserve. From sleep studies to therapies such as implanted devices, medication and lifestyle changes, our sleep medicine team can guide you on the right path to better sleep.
With a team of skilled, licensed polysomnographers and sleep specialists practicing in South Jersey, there’s no need to travel outside your community to receive exceptional care. All of our local sleep specialists bring expertise and depth of knowledge to the sleep lab, ensuring your access to the most comprehensive services—conducted in the lab or at home.
