I had one of my kidneys removed in March and have noticed an increase in Central Apneas. Is this a coincidence, or is having a nephrectomy and an increase in central apneas related? I have been using a CPAP since 2007, and my obstructive apneas are stable at under 5 per hour. My centrals vary from night to night (2-11 per hour). I messaged my sleep clinic, and they seem to be more concerned with the obstructive side and don’t think I need to do another sleep study. For background, I have Stage 3b CKD and High Blood Pressure. I know that having these conditions can lead to cardio problems. Am I overworrying about the increase in Central Apneas?
1 Like
Hi, thanks so much for sharing your experience — you’ve been through a lot this year, and it’s understandable to be concerned about changes in your sleep and breathing patterns.
Central apneas can sometimes fluctuate naturally, but you’re right that certain medical conditions (like chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular concerns, and even medication changes after surgery) may have an influence on your breathing at night. Having a nephrectomy itself isn’t typically considered a direct cause of central apneas, but the changes in your overall health, fluid balance, and blood pressure could potentially play a role in how your sleep-disordered breathing shows up.
It’s encouraging that your obstructive apneas remain stable with CPAP, but if you’re noticing more central events (especially if you’re feeling more tired, short of breath, or symptomatic during the day), it’s reasonable to bring this up again with your care team. Sometimes another sleep study, or a closer look at your data, is helpful in distinguishing whether the centrals are clinically significant or more of a variation that doesn’t require intervention.
You’re not overworrying — it’s always better to advocate for your health. If your clinic doesn’t feel another study is needed right now, you might still ask whether adjustments to your CPAP settings, or additional monitoring, could be appropriate.
You’re doing the right thing by staying proactive and informed. Wishing you the best as you continue to recover and manage your sleep health 