Optimum balance between OSA and CSA

Increasing pressure to reduce OSA seems to increase CSA, something to do with acid. Which is worse, what is the balance and how is this acheived?

Bobber2 wrote:Increasing pressure to reduce OSA seems to increase CSA, something to do with acid. Which is worse, what is the balance and how is this acheived?

The mechanism that triggers central apneas in some patients when they have increased pressure is not fully understood (at least that's my understanding). There is an assumption that the increase pressure interferes with the chemo recptors that sense the acidity of our blood. But this is mostly conjecture. You see, during sleep our breathing is actually regulated by the amount of CO2 in our blood, which increases the acidity. As the CO2 builds, our respiratory drive increases. As we blow off the CO2, the respiratory drive falls. If the CO2 level is not correctly sensed, then our bodies fail to breathe until the CO2 buildup reaches a critical point which again triggers breathing.

In a nutshell, your doctor uses the sleep study to determine the proper balance for you. As the increase the pressure, they also monitor the number of central apneas that occur. They then pick the lowest pressure that addresses your symptoms. This allows them to pick the pressure that is least likely to also trigger central apneas.

Hope that helps.

Increasing pressure to reduce OSA seems to increase CSA, something to do with acid. Which is worse, what is the balance and how is this acheived?

Is this question hypothetical or have you been increasing your pressure on your machine and noticing an increase in Clear airway apneas on your data? Both types of apnea are dangerous to your health. If this is a real concern and the numbers are high, you should consult your doctor.

You are registered so you can list your equipment by going to the user control panel. That would help others give you answers. If your questions was purely hypothetical, never mind!