Sleep apnea symptoms linked to memory and thinking problems

Individuals who expertise sleep apnea could also be extra more likely to even have reminiscence or pondering issues, based on a preliminary research that might be offered on the American Academy of Neurology’s 76th Annual Assembly happening April 13–18, 2024, in particular person in Denver and on-line. The research exhibits a constructive affiliation however didn’t decide whether or not sleep apnea causes cognitive decline.

Sleep apnea is when individuals cease and restart respiration repeatedly throughout sleep which may decrease oxygen ranges within the blood. Signs embody snorting, gasping and respiration pauses. Folks with the dysfunction might also expertise morning complications or have hassle specializing in duties.

“Sleep apnea is a standard dysfunction that’s usually underdiagnosed, but therapies can be found,” stated research writer Dominique Low, MD, MPH, of Boston Medical Heart in Massachusetts, and a member of the American Academy of Neurology. “Our research discovered contributors who had sleep apnea signs had better odds of getting reminiscence or pondering issues.”

The research concerned 4,257 individuals. Contributors accomplished a questionnaire asking about sleep high quality in addition to reminiscence and pondering issues. For sleep, contributors have been requested about snorting, gasping or respiration pauses of their sleep. For reminiscence and pondering, contributors have been requested questions associated to problem remembering, durations of confusion, problem concentrating or issues with determination making.

Of all contributors, 1,079 reported signs of sleep apnea. Of these with signs, 357 individuals, or 33%, reported reminiscence or pondering issues in comparison with 628 individuals, or 20% of individuals with out sleep apnea signs.

After adjusting for different components that might have an effect on reminiscence and pondering issues, resembling age, race, gender and training, researchers discovered that individuals who reported sleep apnea signs have been about 50% extra more likely to additionally report having reminiscence or pondering issues in comparison with individuals who didn’t have sleep apnea signs.

“These findings spotlight the significance of early screening for sleep apnea,” stated Low. “Efficient therapies like steady constructive airway strain (CPAP) machines are available. High quality sleep, together with consuming a nutritious diet, common train, social engagement and cognitive stimulation, might finally cut back an individual’s danger of pondering and reminiscence issues, bettering their high quality of life.”

Limitations of the research embody that the information was sourced from one survey and contributors reported their signs as an alternative of being assessed by medical professionals. Further research are wanted following individuals’s sleep apnea, reminiscence and pondering signs over time.