Classification of Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

Abstract

There are several conditions which fall under the umbrella of sleep-related breathing disorders per the International Classifications of Sleep Disorders Third Edition. Though obstructive sleep apnea is the most commonly encountered clinically, other sleep-related breathing disorders such as central sleep apnea, sleep-related hypoventilation, treatment emergent central sleep apnea, and many other abnormal patterns of respiration can be noted during sleep. A single patient may have numerous sleep-related breathing disorders, including both obstructive and central sleep apnea. This is important when deciding proper management and treatment for these patients, as many traditional treatments for obstructive sleep apnea may not be effective for other sleep-related breathing disorders. They may require treatment such as more advanced noninvasive ventilation or supplemental oxygen. Many times further evaluation and treatment of an underlying condition may be necessary (i.e., heart failure, intrinsic lung disease). Severity of sleep apnea is typically determined on the number of abnormal breathing events per hour of sleep as noted on a sleep study. The severity of sleep apnea can also be helpful in determining appropriate management and treatment options.