In sleep apnea, there are episodes of temporary breathing stoppage (lasting 10 seconds or longer) during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and most often affects men who are overweight.
Causes include overrelaxation of muscles of the soft palate (at the roof of the mouth), or enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
Central sleep apnea occurs because of a problem with the nerves that control breathing, which may be due to various disorders, such as brain damage after a head injury or stroke.
As well as breathing stoppages, both types may cause loud snoring, disturbed sleep, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and poor concentration. Obstructive sleep apnea may be treated by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), in which high-pressure air is breathed through a mask.
Treatment of central sleep apnea depends on the underlying cause