Central Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep due to a lack of respiratory effort. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway is blocked, central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. This can lead to disrupted sleep and decreased oxygen levels in the body.
Common causes of central sleep apnea include heart failure, stroke, and certain neurological conditions. It can also occur in people without any underlying health issues. Treatment options may involve lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, or addressing the underlying medical conditions contributing to the disorder.