Apnea orapnoea is a technical term for suspension of external breathing. During apnea there is no movement of the muscles of respiration and the volume of the lungs initially remains unchanged .

Apnoea, also known as apnea, is a medical condition characterized by the temporary cessation or significant reduction in breathing. It can occur during sleep or while awake and is often associated with the impairment of the exchange of gases in the body.

Types of Apnoea:

There are three main types of apnoea:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): This is the most common type of apnoea and occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. It is often characterized by loud snoring, gasping, or choking sounds as the individual struggles to breathe.

2. Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA): This type of apnoea occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike OSA, there is no physical obstruction in the airway. CSA is less common than OSA and is often associated with certain medical conditions such as heart failure or stroke.

3. Mixed Sleep Apnoea: This type of apnoea is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnoea.

Symptoms of Apnoea:

- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Irritability or mood changes
- Decreased libido
- Frequent urination at night

Causes of Apnoea:

- Obesity: Excess weight can lead to the narrowing of the airway, making it more susceptible to obstruction.
- Age: Apnoea becomes more common as individuals age, as the muscles in the airway tend to lose their tone and become more relaxed.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop apnoea compared to women.
- Family history: There is a genetic component to apnoea, and individuals with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk.
- Certain medical conditions: Conditions such as hypothyroidism, heart failure, and neurological disorders can increase the risk of apnoea.

Treatment of Apnoea:

- Lifestyle modifications: Weight loss, regular exercise, and a healthy diet can help improve symptoms of apnoea, especially in cases of obstructive sleep apnoea.
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): This is a common treatment for apnoea, particularly OSA. It involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth during sleep, which delivers a continuous flow of air to keep the airway open.
- Oral appliances: These devices are designed to reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway obstruction during sleep.
- Surgery: In severe cases of apnoea, surgery may be recommended to remove excess tissue, repair structural abnormalities, or implant devices to support the airway.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for apnoea, as it can significantly impact an individual's overall health and quality of life.