Why Do I Stop Breathing in My Sleep?

Pauses in breathing during sleep may occur as a result of a variety of different causes. However, these pauses are typically the result of airway obstructions, neurological irregularities, or imbalances in respiratory control. When these pauses occur due to obstructions, the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, narrowing the airway and making it difficult for air to pass through. This can lead to brief lapses in breathing, which are often accompanied by snoring or gasping. Neurological causes, including conditions like central sleep apnea, involve a failure in the brain’s signaling to the muscles responsible for breathing, causing temporary interruptions without physical obstruction. Various factors, including excess weight, nasal congestion, or anatomical differences in the individual’s airway, can all contribute to these disruptions. Certain medications, alcohol consumption, or underlying health conditions can also serve to suppress the body’s ability to regulate breathing patterns effectively. Providers at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders evaluate these underlying causes to determine whether the issue stems from structural airway problems, neurological dysfunction, or a combination of distinct factors.

Short, infrequent pauses in breathing can occur naturally during sleep and may not always be indicative of a more serious issue. Brief interruptions in airflow can happen as the body transitions between sleep stages, especially in deeper sleep cycles where muscle relaxation increases. In many cases, these pauses are mild events and do not cause significant disruptions to oxygen levels or sleep quality. However, when breathing stops occur frequently, last longer than a few seconds, or lead to gasping and choking sensations, they may point to the presence of an underlying sleep disorder. While occasional irregularities may not be concerning, consistent or prolonged breathing pauses can interfere with restorative sleep and impact overall health. Individuals who experience excessive daytime fatigue, unexplained headaches, or frequent nighttime awakenings may be dealing with an undiagnosed sleep-related breathing disorder. Healthcare experts will work with patients in assessing these symptoms to determine whether further evaluation is necessary and provide guidance on improving airflow and sleep stability.

Sleep apnea ranks as among the most common causes of recurring breathing pauses during sleep, with episodes ranging from mild interruptions to prolonged lapses that significantly reduce oxygen levels. During obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the airway becomes physically blocked due to muscle relaxation, preventing normal airflow. As a result, the body repeatedly wakes up to restore breathing. This cycle of disrupted sleep is capable of causing chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other long-term health complications. Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the respiratory muscles. This causes periodic stops in breathing without an actual airway obstruction. Some individuals may experience a combination of both types of sleep apnea. This is known as complex sleep apnea. Regardless of the form, untreated sleep apnea can contribute to cardiovascular strain, metabolic issues, and decreased overall well-being.

Frequent or prolonged pauses in breathing during sleep can have serious health implications, especially when they lead to oxygen deprivation and repeated disruptions in sleep cycles. When airflow is repeatedly interrupted, the body reacts by increasing heart rate as well as blood pressure, which over time can place significant strain on the cardiovascular system. Untreated sleep apnea and other breathing-related disorders have been linked to an increased risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease. Ongoing sleep disruptions can also serve to impair cognitive function, weaken the immune system, and contribute to the onset of mood instability. Individuals who experience persistent breathing interruptions may struggle with excessive daytime sleepiness, memory difficulties, or difficulty maintaining focus. Identifying and addressing the cause of these breathing pauses is essential for preventing long-term complications. Providers at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders assess these risks and provide individualized solutions to ensure safe and healthy sleep.