Can ammonia or VOC's cause apneas?

[MyronH]

Anyone know if ammonia or VOC's build-up in the house can cause apneas? Central apnea with low Oxygen level?

My brother suggested I get my house checked. I have three cats with litter boxes, and last time he was here, he said it smelt like ammonia.

I had some major CA's last night, and could not get ANY sleep. Slept less then 1hr. My O2 went down multiple times to 80% before my monitor woke me.

[Sleeprider]

Ammonia is an irritant at levels associated with a litter box however i'm not aware of any association with sleep apnea. VOCs include a broad range of hydrocarbon organic compounds. To the best of my knowledge, cat urine is not a significant source of VOC, and even cat farts (methane) is considered exempt from VOC regulations (yes it's true).

Now that I've answered you straight-up, go clean the litter! People will notice.

[car54]

The way I unscientifically see it, smells affect my breathing so there might be a correlation. I am asthmatic and many smells seem to make my breathing more difficult. I use order less laundry soap and I cant stand the smell of fabric softener. For what it is worth.

Car54