Central sleep apnea is characterized by which of the following?

Central sleep apnea is characterized by which of the following?

• A. Absence of chest wall and abdominal movements during apneic periods
• B. Increased oxygen saturation
• C. Snoring that is usually very loud
• D. All of the above

Answer: (A)

Central sleep apnea is defined by a lack of respiratory effort during an apneic event, so there is no chest wall or abdominal movement. This reflects a problem with the brain’s drive to breathe rather than an obstruction in the airway. In contrast, obstructive events show continued respiratory effort even though airflow stops because the airway is blocked. Oxygen saturation typically decreases during apneas due to reduced ventilation, not increases. Loud snoring is more characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea, where airway obstruction causes noise. So the statement describing the absence of chest and abdominal movements during apneic periods best captures central sleep apnea.

Central sleep apnea is defined by a lack of respiratory effort during an apneic event, so there is no chest wall or abdominal movement. This reflects a problem with the brain’s drive to breathe rather than an obstruction in the airway. In contrast, obstructive events show continued respiratory effort even though airflow stops because the airway is blocked. Oxygen saturation typically decreases during apneas due to reduced ventilation, not increases. Loud snoring is more characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea, where airway obstruction causes noise. So the statement describing the absence of chest and abdominal movements during apneic periods best captures central sleep apnea.