What are the common types of sleep-disordered breathing?

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) encompasses several distinct types, each characterized by disruptions in normal breathing patterns during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most prevalent form, where the upper airway experiences recurring blockages, causing momentary breathing pauses (apneas) or shallow breathing (hypopneas). These interruptions trigger brief awakenings, leading to fragmented sleep and symptoms like loud snoring and daytime sleepiness. Central sleep apnea (CSA) involves a failure of the brain to send proper signals to breathing muscles, resulting in apneas. Unlike OSA, CSA lacks physical airway obstruction and is often associated with conditions like heart failure. Complex sleep apnea syndrome blends OSA and CSA characteristics, initially presenting as OSA but evolving to include central apneas, making treatment complexHypopneas, another SDB facet, entail shallow breathing causing reduced blood oxygen levels and sleep disruptions. Upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) is akin to OSA but without complete obstruction, leading to sleep fragmentation and daytime fatigue. Though snoring isn’t a formal SDB type, persistent and loud snoring can signal underlying issues, particularly OSA. Prolonged snoring often warrants further assessment. All SDB types share the common feature of interrupting natural breathing during sleep, resulting in fragmented sleep architecture and potential health complications. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for addressing these disruptions and improving overall well-being.