Sleep Breathing Disorder & Sleep Apnea Treatment Delhi

Sleep – Related Breathing Disorders

Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders are a group of conditions which are characterized by abnormal breathing patterns during the sleep that can range from snoring and partial airflow blockage to complete breathing pauses. These disorders disrupt the sleep quality, reduce oxygen levels, and may lead to serious health complications if untreated.

Types of Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

It is one of the most common type. It occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively during sleep, which causes repeated blockage of the upper airway and loud snoring or gasping.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

A less common condition in which the brain fails to send signals to the breathing muscles, leading to pauses in breathing without airway blockage.

Mixed or Complex Sleep Apnea

A combination of obstructive and central apneas.

Sleep-Related Hypoventilation Disorders

In this the breathing becomes too shallow or slow during sleep, leading to increased carbon dioxide levels. Seen in obesity hypoventilation syndrome, neuromuscular diseases, or chest wall disorders.

Primary Snoring

A loud breathing sounds during sleep without apneas or oxygen desaturation. This can still disrupt sleep or be a sign of future OSA.

Causes

Obesity and large neck circumference
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids (especially in children)
Nasal blockage or deviated septum
Alcohol or sedative use before bed
Aging and male gender (higher risk for OSA)
Heart failure or brainstem disorders (linked to CSA)
Neuromuscular diseases (in hypoventilation disorders)

Diagnosis

Polysomnography (Sleep Study) – It helps to measure the breathing, oxygen levels, movements, and brain activity during sleep.
Home Sleep Apnea Testing (HSAT) – It is required for selected cases, especially in suspected OSA.
Arterial blood gases or transcutaneous CO₂ monitoring (for hypoventilation disorders)

Treatment

Lifestyle changes – Weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, sleeping on the side.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) – A machine that keeps airways open using pressurized air (first-line for OSA).
BiPAP or ASV – For central apneas or hypoventilation cases.
Oral appliances – Mandibular advancement devices for mild OSA or snoring.
Surgery – For anatomical obstructions (tonsillectomy, nasal surgery).
Oxygen therapy – In hypoventilation disorders if oxygen levels remain low.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can sleep apnea cause serious health problems?

Yes. Untreated OSA increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, diabetes, and even sudden death during sleep.

2. Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?

No. Primary snoring occurs without apnea, but persistent loud snoring can be a warning sign of OSA, especially if it is accompanied by daytime sleepiness.

3. What is the difference between OSA and CSA?

In OSA, the airways is physically blocked despite the effort to breathe. In CSA, the brain fails to trigger breathing, and there’s no effort to inhale.

4. Can children have sleep-related breathing disorders?

Yes. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are a common cause in children. Symptoms may include restless sleep, behavioral problems, and poor school performance.