Central apnea is a type of sleep apnea that occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Central sleep apnea requires different treatments depending on the cause.
For example, if heart failure is the cause, medications and lifestyle modifications are the first line of treatment. Medications help to reduce the strain on the heart by widening blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. You can also reduce the strain on your heart by making lifestyle changes, such as eating a low-sodium diet, quitting smoking, drinking alcohol, exercising, and controlling your weight.
If medications and lifestyle changes don't help, surgery may be an option, as may home oxygen therapy at night or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). For optimal treatment and diagnosis, it is recommended that you consult a sleep specialist.
