Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), as mentioned in the sleep apnea section, deals with the collapse of soft tissue consequently causing an ‘obstruction’ of the airway. Central sleep apnea (CSA), is a condition where the brain fails to ‘send a signal’ to the breathing mechanism within our body. This condition, although less frequently seen, is more complex and requires different therapy methods than what is used in OSA.

Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR), is linked to CSA and is characteristic of progressively deeper breathing, followed by an apneic episode.

Noctural hypoventilation, is characterised by shallow breaths due to the brain not sending enough of an impulse to the respiratory muscles. This condition usually does not have snoring as a symptom, due to the shallow breathing that is seen.

All different types of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) are treated differently depending on you and your pre-existing medical conditions. At Aria MD Sleep Centre we focus on OSA testing and treating. This is the most common type of SDB that is found and is treatable with the correct therapy and/or intervention. Various types of treatments can include one or more of the following: Radiofrequency Palate, Uvula Reduction Coblation of Inferior Turbinates, Tonsillectomy, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UP3), Septoplasty, Pillar Procedure, and/or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

According to studies, humans spend near about 30% of their lives sleeping. Sleep disturbances are produced by abnormal breathing patterns, commonly known as sleep disordered breathing (SBD). These include central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, nocturnal hypoventilation and cheyne-stokes respirations.

Symptoms of central sleep apnea include –

• Insomnia
• Abrupt awakenings with shortness of breath
• Abnormal breathing patterns while sleeping
• Hypersomnia

Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include –

• Loud snoring
• Excessive sleepiness during daytime
• Morning headache
• Awakening with a sore throat or dry mouth

Symptoms of nocturnal hypoventilation include –

• Feeling sleepy during the day
• Heart problems
• Headaches
• Stomach problems
• Fainting

Symptoms of cheyne-stokes respiration include –

• Shortness of breath while lying down
• Fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness
• Coughing fits along with shortness of breath, especially at night

Are you having problems in sleeping or are you experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms? If so, then we are here to help you. We are a renowned sleep disorder clinic that provides sleep solutions for patients of all ages. We know what you are going through by not being able to sleep. Trust us and we will do our best to give you back your sleep. Call us today!

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