Apnea vs. Sleep Apnea: Understanding the Difference

Apnea is a temporary suspension of breathing. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including airway obstruction, central nervous system disorders, and respiratory muscle weakness.

Sleep apnea is a specific type of apnea that occurs during sleep. It is characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial airway obstruction during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and potentially serious health problems.

The main difference between apnea and sleep apnea is that sleep apnea specifically refers to apnea episodes that occur during sleep. Apnea, on the other hand, can occur at any time, regardless of whether a person is awake or asleep.

If you believe you may be experiencing apnea during sleep, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and diagnosis.