What does the term apnea refer to in sleep studies?

The term apnea, in the context of sleep studies, refers to a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep. This phenomenon is significant because it can have various implications for an individual's health, including disruptions in oxygen levels and sleep architecture. Apneas can occur in different forms, such as obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway is blocked, or central sleep apnea, where the brain fails to send appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing. Recognizing and diagnosing apnea is crucial in sleep medicine because it can lead to numerous health issues if left untreated, including cardiovascular problems and daytime fatigue. Understanding apnea is fundamental for sleep professionals in assessing and treating various sleep disorders.