The Warning Signs While Sleeping

The Hidden Dangers of Central Sleep Apnea: What You Need to Know

When we think of sleep apnea, most people picture loud snoring or obstructed breathing during sleep. But there's another, lesser-known form of the disorder—central sleep apnea (CSA) —and it carries its own set of serious risks.

What Is Central Sleep Apnea?

Central sleep apnea is a condition where your brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing during sleep. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, where breathing is blocked by a physical obstruction, CSA is a communication breakdown between the brain and the body. This makes it more complex and, in some cases, more dangerous.

The Quiet Threat: Why CSA Is Dangerous

Central sleep apnea is not just about poor sleep quality—it can have serious consequences for your overall health:

1. Interrupted Oxygen Supply

During an apnea episode, breathing stops for 10 seconds or more. This results in reduced oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxia), which can strain vital organs, especially the heart and brain.

2. Heart Complications

CSA is commonly associated with heart conditions, particularly congestive heart failure. In fact, the relationship is bidirectional—heart problems can cause CSA, and CSA can worsen heart problems. One type, called Cheyne-Stokes respiration, is often found in people with serious cardiac issues and is linked to a higher risk of death.

3. Cognitive Decline

Ongoing drops in oxygen and fragmented sleep can lead to memory loss, trouble concentrating, and mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Over time, this can affect job performance, relationships, and overall quality of life.

4. Increased Risk of Stroke

Studies have shown that people with CSA are at a higher risk of stroke. The irregular breathing patterns can lead to fluctuations in blood pressure and decreased brain perfusion, raising stroke risk significantly.

5. Daytime Fatigue and Accidents

CSA often leads to excessive daytime sleepiness, making activities like driving or operating machinery dangerous. People with untreated CSA are much more likely to be involved in accidents due to impaired alertness.

Who Is at Risk?

CSA is more common in:

- People over 60

- Those with heart conditions or atrial fibrillation

- Individuals using certain medications (especially opioids)

- People who have had a stroke

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing chronic fatigue, waking up gasping, or if your partner notices pauses in your breathing, it’s worth speaking to a doctor. A sleep study (polysomnography) is the gold standard for diagnosing CSA.

Treatment options may include:

- Adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV) devices

- BiPAP machines

- Treating the underlying heart or neurological condition

- Reducing opioid use (if applicable)

Central sleep apnea is a silent but serious condition. While it may not be as well known as obstructive sleep apnea, its effects can be equally or even more dangerous—especially if left untreated. Recognizing the symptoms and getting a proper diagnosis can protect not only your sleep but also your heart, brain, and overall health.

Don’t ignore the signs—sleep should heal, not harm.

Contact us to learn more.