During which sleep stage is central apnea mainly observed in patients?

Central apnea is primarily observed during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep stage. This is significant because during REM sleep, there is a decrease in the brain's regulation of breathing, leading to an increased susceptibility to disruptions in respiration. In this stage, muscle tone is at its lowest, which includes the muscles involved in breathing, contributing to the occurrence of central apnea, where the brain temporarily stops sending signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Additionally, REM sleep is characterized by more irregular patterns of breathing compared to non-REM stages, further facilitating events of central apnea. Understanding this connection is crucial for diagnosing and managing sleep-related breathing disorders, where central apnea can significantly affect overall sleep quality and health.