Definition: A pause in breathing due to the brain failing to activate the respiratory muscles. The respiratory control center in the brain normally regulates breathing. If carbon dioxide levels are reduced below normal or if there is damage to neural pathways involved in respiratory control, there may be disruptions in breathing. These pauses last greater than 10 seconds and occur while asleep. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, the airway is not blocked.
Examples: After his stroke, he began to suffer from central sleep apnea.
