What is the main cause of sleep apnea?

The main cause of sleep apnea is the obstruction or collapse of the airway during sleep, a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This typically occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, narrowing the airway and temporarily blocking airflow. Factors contributing to this include obesity, which increases fatty deposits around the neck, a naturally narrow airway, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, and certain lifestyle habits like alcohol consumption before bed. Other forms, like central sleep apnea (CSA), are less common and result from the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles controlling breathing. Identifying and addressing these underlying causes is essential for effective management and treatment of sleep apnea.