Sleep-disordered Breathing

Sleep-disordered breathing refers to a group of conditions that affect normal breathing during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, where the throat muscles relax excessively, blocking the airway and causing pauses in breathing. This can lead to disrupted sleep, snoring, and daytime fatigue. Other forms include central sleep apnea, where the brain fails to signal muscles to breathe. These disorders can increase the risk of heart problems and other health issues. Evaluation by a healthcare professional, often including a sleep study, is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.