What is sleep apnea caused by?

Sleep apnea is primarily caused by a blockage of the airway during sleep or problems with the brain's signaling to the muscles that control breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form, occurs when the throat muscles relax too much, blocking the airway and causing breathing to stop. The condition is often associated with factors such as obesity, age, enlarged tonsils, and genetics. In contrast, central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that regulate breathing. This may be associated with conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Both types disrupt sleep and reduce oxygen levels, leading to fatigue, cardiovascular problems, and other health problems.