Patient/caregiver were instructed regarding lifestyle measures for individuals with central sleep apnea as follows:
- Individuals with history of chronic opioid use and/or opioid abuse can present with suppression of the higher centers in the brain controlling the respiratory activity. Intake of opioid medications, such as, hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, and methadone, with alcohol can significantly increase the risk of suppression of the higher centers in the brain controlling the respiratory activity. This can result in poor signal transmission to the muscles controlling the respiratory activity, thus contributing to development of central sleep apnea. Individuals with history of chronic opioid use for pain control must observe compliance with practicing alternative pain control measures and slowly wean themselves off of chronic opioid intake. Alternating opioid with non-opioid pain killer intake can be a good start. Seeking assistance with rehab centers & behavioral therapy interventions to control the opioid addiction can help. 24/7 free and confidential SAMHSA national helpline is also available for addiction control assistance.
- Individuals with history of chronic psychotropic medication use and/or abuse, as a side-effect of the medication intake, can present with suppression of the higher centers in the brain controlling the respiratory activity. Excessive intake of psychotropic medications, such as, sedative-hypnotics, anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers, can significantly increase the risk of suppression of the higher centers in the brain controlling the respiratory activity. This can result in poor signal transmission to the muscles controlling the respiratory activity, thus contributing to development of central sleep apnea. Individuals with history of chronic psychotropic medication intake can seek assistance with behavioral therapy and alternative measures for anxiety control to help reduce dependence on medication. Compliance with prescribed physical exercise, as tolerated, can help release of chemicals called endorphins. Endorphins enhance feelings of pleasure & well-being and also contribute to reducing pain & discomfort, which in long run leads to behavior changes and reduced need for intake of psychotropic medications.
- Individuals must exercise caution of letting their medical team know about their history of sleep apnea, before undergoing any surgical procedures. Anesthesia administered at the time of surgery and some medications taken for pain management can set the ground for fresh episodes of sleep apnea, in individuals with history. Letting the medical team know of your sleep apnea history would give them an opportunity to adopt alternative measures.
