Apnea: Definition, Types, and Health Implications

Apnea is a temporary cessation of breathing that lasts for at least 10 seconds. It can occur during sleep (sleep apnea) or while awake (central apnea). Sleep apnea is further classified as obstructive, central, or mixed. Obstructive sleep apnea results from airway blockage, while central apnea stems from a failure of the brain to signal the muscles to breathe.

Repeated apnea episodes can lead to low blood oxygen levels (hypoxemia), fragmented sleep, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and daytime fatigue. Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study (polysomnography). Treatment options include lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, and in some cases, surgery.