ABSTRACT
The respiratory system is designed to provide adequate oxygen (O2) to and remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the circulation. In this manner, it helps maintain a chemical milieu that remains constant within a specified range. The system has two basic control systems. One is under voluntary control, while the other is involuntary and is regulated automatically. Autonomic regulation depends on chemical control systems and occurs during both sleep and wake. Although one does not have to remember to breathe when awake, an individual can override the automatic regulation and take a breath at will. On occasion, a person might overcompensate and hyperventilate, as can happen during a panic attack. By contrast, ventilation is solely under chemical control during sleep. Thus, respiratory function may be compromised during sleep when a primary respiratory disorder is present. In this chapter, we will briefly review the physiology of the respiratory system during transition from wake to sleep and during various stages of sleep. Then, we will review sleep disorders in various primary respiratory diseases.
