Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that causes people to stop breathing at different times throughout their sleep cycles. There are two main types: Obstructive sleep apnea; and Central sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea. During the interruptions to breathing, called apneas, the airway’s soft tissue collapses. This collapse prevents oxygen from passing through the airway and reaching the lungs.
During central sleep apnea, the brain stops sending messages to the body to breathe during sleep. No physical disruption to the airway takes place, although the body responds as if an interruption occurs.
Both types of sleep apnea are disruptive to sleep patterns. People with untreated sleep apnea typically wake up feeling tired and lethargic. Left untreated, sleep apnea can have a significant impact on short- and long-term mental and physical health.
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