DefinitionCentral sleep apnea is when you repeatedly stop breathing during sleep because the brain temporarily stops sending signals to the muscles that control breathing.See also:Obstructive sleep apneaSleep disordersAlternative NamesSleep apnea - centralCauses, incidence, and risk factorsCentral sleep apnea often occurs in people who have certain medical conditions. For example, it can develop in persons who have life-threatening problems with the brainstem. The brainstem controls breathing. As a result, any disease or injury affecting this area may result in problems with normal breathing during sleep or when awake.Conditions that can cause or lead to central sleep apnea include:Bulbar poliomyelitisComplications of cervical spine surgeryEncephalitisaffecting the brainstemNeurodegenerati