Obstructive sleep apnoea

Intermittent reduction of the breathing pattern during sleep is sometimes called sleep apnoea. There are two types of sleep apnoea: obstructive sleep apnoea and central sleep apnoea. As suggested by its name, central sleep apnoea is associated with the brain's control of the breathing cycle during sleep, whereas obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with intermittent but recurrent obstruction of the upper airways during sleep. Examples of central sleep apnoea include Cheyne-Stokes breathing and a response to high altitude.¹

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. In addition, it is the most common identified condition causing sleepiness during the day.²