Are There Differences Between Non-REM and REM Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that disrupts your breathing while you sleep and can occur during different sleep stages. REM sleep apnea and non-REM sleep apnea differ in their impact and characteristics, and understanding these distinctions can help you to manage your condition more effectively. Whether you suspect you have sleep apnea or are currently exploring treatment options, knowing the differences between non-REM and REM sleep apnea will help you to seek tailored solutions for better rest and overall health.

What Is REM Sleep Apnea?

REM (rapid eye movement) sleep is the stage of sleep associated with dreaming and intense brain activity. This is also when your body experiences muscle atonia, or temporary paralysis of most muscles, except for those crucial ones we need to control essential functions, like breathing. REM sleep apnea is a form of the condition that occurs either mostly or only during this sleep stage.

Those with REM sleep apnea are likely to experience breathing interruptions that are more frequent or severe in REM than in non-REM stages. The consequences of this are usually disrupted sleep, diminished oxygen levels, and long-term health effects, such as strain on the cardiovascular system or daytime fatigue.

What Is Non-REM Sleep Apnea?

The lighter and deeper stages of sleep where the body focuses on physical recovery, such as tissue repair and immune function, are referred to as non-REM sleep. Non-REM sleep apnea occurs when breathing interruptions are more common or occur exclusively in these non-dreaming sleep phases.

This type of apnea may not disrupt your sleep to the degree that REM sleep apnea does, but it can still lead to poor sleep quality and has implications on your health, such as excessive daytime sleepiness, headaches, and impaired focus.

Key Differences Between REM and Non-REM Sleep Apnea

Frequency of Disruptions

  • Breathing interruptions are more concentrated during REM sleep apnea phases.
  • Non-REM sleep apnea can occur throughout the night - it doesn’t seem to favor one of the three non-REM sleep stages.

Severity of Symptoms

  • REM sleep apnea can lead to sharper drops in oxygen levels due to the naturally relaxed state of muscles, including those in the airway.
  • Non-REM sleep apnea often results in lighter, more consistent breathing interruptions.

Consequences for Sleep Quality

  • REM sleep apnea can disrupt sleep during critical emotional processing and memory consolidation, as this predominantly takes place during REM sleep.
  • Non-REM sleep apnea disrupts the restorative processes of the body, potentially impacting physical recovery.

Responses to Treatment

  • Some forms of treatment, such as CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) can be equally effective for both types. Adjustments may be needed based on your specific sleep patterns.

How to Tell If You Have Non-REM or REM Sleep Apnea

It usually takes a sleep study - either in a sleep lab or at home - to diagnose the type of sleep apnea you have. During these studies, your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, brain activity, and muscle tone are monitored to identify when and how often the sleep disruptions occur. If symptoms like daytime drowsiness, poor concentration, and irritability are still continuing after treatment, you may need further adjustments based on your dominant sleep apnea stage.


Managing REM Sleep Apnea

If your apnea is more severe during REM sleep, treatments may include:

  • CPAP or APAP Devices: These sleep apnea devices keep your airway open with continuous or automatic pressure, even during REM sleep.
  • Lifestyle Changes: You can help to reduce symptoms by avoiding alcohol before bed, losing weight, and sleeping on your side.
  • Medications or Equipment: In some cases, prescribed medications or oral appliances may help to keep airways open.

Managing Non-REM Sleep Apnea

If you are experiencing non-REM sleep apnea, similar treatments apply, but with emphasis placed on certain areas:

  • Positional Therapy: If your non-REM apnea is triggered by sleeping on your back, positional therapy to encourage side sleeping may help.
  • Routine Adjustments: Implementing consistent bedtime routines can help to minimize disruptions and improve sleep quality during non-REM stages.

Can You Have Both Types?

Many individuals with obstructive sleep apnea may find they experience symptoms across both REM and non-REM stages. This does not particularly impact treatment, as plans typically address the overall severity of the condition rather than the specific stage of sleep.

The Importance of Effective Treatment

Whether you have non-REM or REM sleep apnea, seeking treatment is essential for improving your overall health. Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to a range of complications, including:

When you address sleep apnea, you help to reduce these risks, enhance your energy levels, and improve your quality of life.

If you (or your partner) think you might have sleep apnea, don’t wait to consult a healthcare provider. Whether your symptoms occur during non-REM, REM sleep, or both, a targeted treatment plan can ensure you get the restful, restorative sleep your body needs.