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+--- Thread: Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol (/Thread-Clear-airway-central-apnea-and-alcohol)
Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol - kenhh - 06-02-2013
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 - iSnooze - 06-02-2013
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 - Sleepster - 06-02-2013
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.
RE: Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol - PaulaO2 - 06-02-2013
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.
RE: Clear airway (central) apnea and alcohol - jgjones1972 - 06-02-2013
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.