Lecture 20: Sleep Apnea

Question 1

What is the main difference between central and obstructive apnea?

Answer 1

Central - won’t breath vs Obstructive - cannot breath

Question 2

What conditions are commonly associated with central apnea? Consequences? Treatment?

Answer 2

i. congestive heart failure - sleepiness/disturbed sleep; artifical ventilation
ii. congenital central hypoventilation syndrome - death; artificial ventilation
iii. opioid use - death by overdose; reduce opioids and artificial ventilation

Question 3

Obstructive sleep apnea is more common for m/f?

Answer 3

Men. 10-15%. Women. 8%

Question 4

For obstructive apnea, what is the difference between wake and sleep states?

Answer 4

Wake: neuromuscular compensation to keep airway open; high muscle activity
Sleep: compensation lost; airway collapses

Question 5

What are the consequences of obstructive sleep apnea?

Answer 5

i. excessive daytime sleepiness
ii. mood/behavioural disorders - irritable, moody
iii. neurocognitive effects - impaired attention/vigilance