What condition involves a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep that may occur up to 100 times a night?

Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can occur multiple times throughout the night, sometimes totaling up to 100 occurrences or more. This condition leads to reduced oxygen levels in the bloodstream and can significantly disrupt normal sleep patterns, resulting in excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and other health issues.

The cessation of breathing in sleep apnea can occur due to blockage of the upper airway (obstructive sleep apnea) or can stem from the brain's failure to send appropriate signals to the muscles involved in breathing (central sleep apnea). Individuals often reactively awaken to resume breathing, which can further impact the quality of their sleep.

In contrast, conditions like chronic bronchitis, respiratory arrest, and emphysema primarily involve chronic respiratory impairment but do not match the specific symptoms or patterns associated with the temporary cessation of breathing during sleep that defines sleep apnea.