Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol
My CPAP machine is showing variable rates of clear airway apneas, varying over a number of nights.
Interestingly, the rate is much higher after having an Alcohol Free Day! After a couple of standard drinks before dinner, it is usually below 5.0 (and often 1.0 to 2.0), but after an AFD, it is usually above 10 and sometimes over 20.
Can I get a Rx for a good Scotch?
Is anyone aware of this "problem"?
RE: Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol
Strange. I'm no expert so hopefully some one who is will voice their opinion. I was told that alcohol can increase the number of AHIs because it relaxes the muscles even more.
RE: Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol
Alcohol is a sedative, and sedatives make obstructive apnea worse.
But this is a case of alcohol lowering the number of central apneas.
I suspect that this effect will subside with time.
Sleepster
INFORMATION ON APNEA BOARD FORUMS OR ON APNEABOARD.COM SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AS MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN BEFORE SEEKING TREATMENT FOR MEDICAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. INFORMATION POSTED ON THE APNEA BOARD WEB SITE AND FORUMS ARE PERSONAL OPINION ONLY AND NOT NECESSARILY A STATEMENT OF FACT.
RE: Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol
Could also be that other factors that happen on AFDs are contributing. Like stress levels would be higher, etc. If you had a good day and went out drinking with friends, you'd have less stress and sleep better. But if an AFD happens during the middle of the week with a lot of stress, then your sleep would be off.
Interesting hypothesis.
PaulaO
Take a deep breath and count to zen.
RE: Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol
The CAs are probably from hyperventilation caused by increased pressure. Alcohol suppresses resperation which in turn could make it less likely that you will hyperventilate. This is just a guess as to what may be happening.
Hyperventilation should go away on its own in time with acclimation to pressure.
