Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects many people worldwide. It occurs when the airflow is restricted or blocked during sleep, resulting in repeated pauses in breathing. There are two types of sleep apnea:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

It occurs when the airway is blocked or narrowed during sleep, usually due to the relaxation of the throat muscles. The obstruction can last for a few seconds to minutes, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the blood, and often causing the sleeper to wake up briefly gasping for air.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

Central sleep apnea is less common than OSA and occurs when the brain fails to send signals to the muscles that control breathing. This type of sleep apnea is often associated with other medical conditions, such as heart failure, stroke, or Parkinson's disease.

Treatment Options

Mild cases of OSA can be treated with lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and sleeping on the side. More severe cases may require continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, a machine that delivers pressurized air to keep the airway open during sleep.

For CSA, treatment options may include addressing the underlying medical condition or using a device that delivers a small amount of oxygen to help regulate breathing.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between OSA and CSA and their associated symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help individuals seek appropriate care and achieve better sleep health.