central sleep apnea
Also written as: CSA — Central Sleep Apnea
A sleep disorder where breathing stops due to lack of respiratory effort from the central nervous system.
Full Definition
Central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to send appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing, resulting in periodic cessation of respiratory effort during sleep. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, the airway remains open but no breathing effort occurs. CSA can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to conditions such as heart failure, stroke, or opioid use. Treatment approaches differ significantly from OSA and may include positive airway pressure therapy, supplemental oxygen, or adaptive servo-ventilation depending on the underlying cause.
Usage
Usage note: Emphasize the absence of respiratory effort, distinguishing from obstructive causes.
In Context
- "Central sleep apnea was suspected given the patient's history of heart failure and absence of snoring." — Clinical documentation
- "The sleep study revealed central sleep apnea with Cheyne-Stokes breathing pattern." — Polysomnography report