Catathrenia resolved with the lowest CPAP pressure settings

Abstract Catathrenia is a sleep disorder characterized by a prolonged expiratory sound preceded by a deep inhalation and accompanied by a bradypnea breathing-pattern. Afflicted individuals are usually unaware of their problem, so it is common that bed partners report strange sounds while breathing during sleep. There is little documented experience in treating the condition, but some studies have shown resolution of this disorder with CPAP, especially in patients with a Sleep-Disordered-Breathing (SDB) associated. Usually high-pressure-levels are recommended. We describe a patient with a self-limited benign condition (without SDB associated), with clinical repercussions due to sleep fragmentation, responding favorably to a low setting on CPAP (4 cmH20). We believe a low setting CPAP-treatment can improve nocturnal groaning episodes and daytime complaints increasing adherence.