Central Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea is much like obstructive sleep apnea, but instead of the muscles relaxing before inhalation, the muscles tend to relax before exhalation, making exhalation difficult while at rest. Basically, central apnea is obstructive sleep apnea in reverse – although both involve the cessation of breathing while one is at rest or sleeping. Many people inform us that there is only one type of rest apnea, and therefore it never occurs to them to seek central sleep apnea information.

Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by an obstruction in the airway, but the data or sleeping information confirms that central sleeping apnea is actually a neurological dysfunction. The facts and data inform us that many people have mixed apnea, suffering from both forms simultaneously. A sleep study should be done to gather facts and information to determine which form you have, or whether you suffer from mixed sleep apnea. The results of the sleep study data can be used by your physician to determine the correct treatment and course of action to be taken.

To Inform

While CPAP works well for people with Obstructive sleep apnea, it does little to alleviate the central form of sleep apnea. There are, however, several different medications that can be prescribed, such as Protriptyline or Klonopin. While there is an option for surgery to correct obstructive sleep apnea, there is no surgery technique that is available for the central form of sleep apnea – since it is a neurological dysfunction. Again, speak with your physician and have a sleep study done to determine what the best course of action for you is. Follow the advice given by a trusted physician, and avoid over-the-counter remedies that promise relief, but usually fail to deliver.

Also See: Sleep Apnea Symptoms

About The Author:
Andrew Thomas is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.sleep-disorders-help.com.