Final answer:
Sleep apnea is diagnosed with sleep studies monitoring vital functions and treatments include CPAP machines and lifestyle changes. Two main types are obstructive sleep apnea, due to airway blockage, and central sleep apnea, due to disrupted brain signals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diagnosis and type of sleep apnea are confirmed with multichannel polysomnographic sleep studies, which include the monitoring of the patient's blood oxygen levels, heart rate, respiratory rate, brain activity, and the volume of air inhaled and exhaled. Treatment commonly involves the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine during sleep, which helps to keep the airway open. This treatment is complemented by lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoiding alcohol and other substances that promote sleep apnea, and sleep position adjustments. In cases of central sleep apnea, supplemental oxygen may also be prescribed.
There are two types of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs due to physical blockages in the airway, while central sleep apnea results from disruptions in brain signals that regulate breathing.