What type of apnea is characterized by a cessation of airflow despite ongoing respiratory effort?

Obstructive apnea is characterized by a cessation of airflow despite ongoing respiratory effort because it results from a blockage of the upper airway. During an obstructive apnea event, the muscles of the throat relax excessively, causing the airway to collapse or become obstructed. The body continues to attempt to breathe, but because the airway is blocked, airflow is stopped despite these efforts.

This condition is a key feature of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where patients may exhibit significant respiratory effort, such as chest and abdominal movement, but there is no airflow due to the obstruction. This differentiation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Understanding this mechanism helps in identifying the underlying issues contributing to sleep-related breathing disorders.