sleep apnea

sleep apnea Temporary stoppage of breathing during sleep, often resulting in daytime sleepiness. Treatment depends on the type of sleep apnea present. Sleep apnea is classified as obstructive or central. Sleep apnea that is associated with air passage obstruction may require losing excessive weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, sleeping on one side, medications to relieve nasal congestion, a breathing device, or surgical procedures. Central sleep apnea is uncommon and caused by problems in the brain that impair the signals to breathe and can require mechanical ventilation. See also sleep apnea, central; sleep apnea, obstructive; sleep disorder.