Concept
Sleep-disordered breathing encompasses a range of disorders characterized by abnormal respiratory patterns or insufficient ventilation during sleep, with obstructive sleep apnea being the most prevalent form. These conditions can lead to significant health consequences, including cardiovascular issues, daytime fatigue, and impaired cognitive function, necessitating timely diagnosis and management.
Relevant Fields:
Concept
Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing due to the relaxation of throat muscles during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen levels and fragmented sleep. It is commonly associated with symptoms like loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and increased risk of cardiovascular problems.
Concept
Central sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep due to a lack of respiratory effort, often linked to underlying medical conditions affecting the brain's ability to control breathing. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, Central sleep apnea is not caused by a physical blockage of the airway but by a failure of the brain to send appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Concept
Hypopnea is characterized by episodes of overly shallow breathing or an abnormally low respiratory rate, often occurring during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the blood. It is a component of sleep-disordered breathing and can significantly impact sleep quality and overall health if left untreated.
Concept
The Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) is a measure used to diagnose the severity of sleep apnea, calculated by the number of apnea and hypopnea events per hour of sleep. A higher AHI indicates more severe sleep apnea, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems and other health issues.
Concept
Polysomnography is a comprehensive sleep study used to diagnose and evaluate sleep disorders by recording brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing, as well as eye and leg movements. It is essential in identifying conditions such as sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome, providing critical data for effective treatment planning.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a treatment method that uses mild air pressure to keep the airways open, primarily used for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. It involves a machine that delivers a constant flow of air through a mask, helping to maintain uninterrupted breathing during sleep.
Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS) is a sleep disorder characterized by the narrowing of the upper airway, leading to increased breathing effort and sleep disruption without significant drops in blood oxygen levels. It is often underdiagnosed as it presents with subtle symptoms compared to obstructive sleep apnea, but it can significantly impact quality of life and requires appropriate management.
Concept
Hypoventilation is a condition where insufficient ventilation leads to increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood, often resulting in respiratory acidosis. It can be caused by factors such as obesity, neuromuscular disorders, or central nervous system depressants, and requires medical intervention to prevent serious complications.
Concept
Cheyne-Stokes respiration is a distinctive pattern of breathing characterized by a gradual increase in breathing followed by a decrease, resulting in periods of apnea. It is often associated with heart failure, stroke, and other conditions affecting the brain's respiratory centers.
Concept
Sleep fragmentation refers to the disruption of sleep architecture, resulting in multiple awakenings or shifts to lighter sleep stages, which can lead to impaired cognitive function, mood disturbances, and reduced overall sleep quality. It is often caused by conditions such as sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and environmental disturbances, and can have significant impacts on physical and mental health.
Concept
Non-apneic hypopnea refers to a partial reduction in airflow during sleep that does not meet the criteria for apnea, often leading to decreased oxygen levels and disrupted sleep patterns. It is a significant condition because, despite not being a complete cessation of breathing, it can still contribute to sleep disturbances and associated health risks.
3