Sleep apnea is a disorder in which you can momentarily stop breathing during sleep. There are three types of sleep apnea – obstructive, central and mixed. These are explored in greater detail here.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): Caused by an airway blockage, OSA is the most common form of sleep apnea. This blockage happens when the soft tissue in the upper airway halts the flow of air in and out of the nose and mouth when the muscles in your throat relax during sleep. A partial airway collapse is called a ‘hypopnea’ and a full airway collapse is an ‘apnea’.^1,2

Central sleep apnea (CSA): This type of sleep apnea is a neurological condition, and it is a lot less common. Unlike OSA, your airway is not blocked. Instead, your brain fails to send the proper signals to the respiratory muscles that control your breathing.¹ 

Mixed sleep apnea (MSA): This occurs when you have a mix of OSA and CSA.¹

OSA severity 

The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation levels are used to indicate the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. This is determined by your healthcare provider after a sleep test or polysomnography. 

• Severe OSA means your AHI is greater than 30 (more than 30 episodes per hour).²
• Moderate OSA puts your AHI between 15 and 30.2
• Mild OSA places your AHI from 5 

The content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for the medical advice of one’s healthcare provider.