II. Definitions

  1. Central Apnea
    1. Cessation of air flow and respiratory effort for at least 10 seconds

III. Causes

  1. Decreased responsivity of central Chemoreceptors
    1. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
    2. Pickwickian syndrome
  2. Increased responsivity of Chemoreceptors
    1. High altitude
  3. Delayed transit of information
    1. Cerebrovascular Accident
    2. Congestive Heart Failure

IV. Symptoms

  1. Insomnia
  2. Mild and intermittent snoring
  3. Major Depression

V. Management

  1. Avoid CPAP - it worsens Central Sleep Apnea
  2. Tricyclic Antidepressants
  3. Progesterone
  4. Acetazolamide

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