Complex Sleep Apnea
Complex sleep apnea, also known as mixed sleep apnea, is a combination of obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. It accounts for 15% of all sleep apnea cases.
Mixed Sleep Apnea Risk Factors
In complex sleep apnea the airways become obstructed or blocked while sleeping and your brain also can fail to send signals to your breathing muscles. Risk factors are the same as obstructive and central sleep apnea and include:
- Being male
- Family history
- Obesity
- Use of alcohol or drugs
- Heart disorders
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Palate and jaw shape
- Large tongue
- Nasal obstruction / congestion
Complex Sleep Apnea Symptoms
- Shortness of breath while sleeping and abrupt awakenings, gasping for air
- Observed episodes of abnormal breathing or stopped breathing during sleep
- Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Snoring
Complications
Sleep disruptions put stress on the cardiovascular system and can raise blood pressure increasing the risk of stroke and heart failure.
As with other types of sleep apnea, mixed sleep apnea can result in extreme daytime fatigue due to continually interrupted sleep.
Complex Sleep Apnea Treatment
Complex sleep apnea treatment involves addressing both the brain signal problem and the airway obstruction. Since complex sleep apnea is often associated with other conditions such as heart problems, caring for the primary condition is usually the first course of treatment. In addition, some of the treatment options that are recommended for people with obstructive sleep apnea can help:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure devices (CPAP)
- Lose weight
- Reduce or eliminate alcohol, drug and cigarette use
- Sleep on your side
- Breathing strips or nasal sprays that help reduce nasal congestion
If you are concerned that you or someone you love may have a sleeping disorder consult with your doctor or visit a sleep center for professional diagnosis and treatment.
Disclaimer: These statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult your physician regarding any sleeping disorders.
