Sleep tst/ventilator: Pure central sleep apnea is uncommon so first, i would evaluate with a sleep test. Central apnea means brain does not send signal to diaphragm to breath/obstructive means airway blocks breathing in deep sleep. Ventilators are now available for home use which can supply pressurized air to the nasal airway via a fitted nasal mask to supply breaths during periods of when patient stops breathing.
Answered 10/4/2016
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See cardiologist: Central sleep apnea is most commonly a reflection of heart failure and will improve if heart condition is treated and improved. There are other predominantly neurological causes that are much harder to treat, but they are uncommon. Specialized breathing machine can mitigate central sleep apnea.
Answered 2/12/2014
5.9k views
Central sleep apnea: Cardiology work up and MRI of brain are 2 steps to find the reason for central sleep apnea.
Answered 6/10/2014
5.5k views
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