What is the difference between central sleep apnea and other severe forms of apnea?

Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a type of sleep apnea that is caused by the brain's failure to send the signals to the muscles that control breathing. This can lead to pauses in breathing during sleep, which can disrupt sleep and cause a number of health problems.

CSA is different from other severe forms of apnea, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), in that it is not caused by a physical obstruction in the airway. OSA is the most common type of sleep apnea, and it occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, preventing air from flowing into the lungs.

CSA is also different from other severe forms of apnea in that it is more common in people with certain medical conditions, such as heart failure, stroke, and Parkinson's disease. OSA, on the other hand, is more common in people who are overweight or obese, have a large neck circumference, or are male.

The symptoms of CSA can also be different from the symptoms of other severe forms of apnea. People with CSA may experience excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. They may also have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

The diagnosis of CSA is made based on a sleep study, which is a test that records the brain activity, breathing, and heart rate during sleep. Treatment for CSA may include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and exercising regularly, and the use of breathing devices, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.