According to a preliminary study released, sleep apnea sufferers may also be more likely to experience memory or thinking issues. This research will be presented in person and online at the 76th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology, which will be held in Denver, Colorado, from April 13-18, 2024. The study found a positive correlation but did not establish a causal relationship between sleep apnea and cognitive deterioration.
People who have sleep apnea experience frequent stops and starts in their breathing, which can reduce blood oxygen levels. Breathing pauses, gasping, and snorting are among the symptoms. In addition to headaches in the morning, people with the disease may find it difficult to concentrate on work.
There were 4,257 participants in the research. A questionnaire on sleep quality, memory, and thinking issues was filled out by the participants. Participants’ experiences with snorting, gasping, or breathing pauses during sleep were inquired about. Participants were asked questions on memory and thinking, including issues with concentration, memory loss, moments of bewilderment, and trouble making decisions.
1,079 individuals out of the total reported having sleep apnea symptoms. In comparison to 628 individuals, or 20% of those without sleep apnea symptoms, 357 persons, or 33% of those with symptoms, reported having memory or cognitive issues.
Researchers discovered that individuals with sleep apnea symptoms were approximately 50% more likely to also report having memory or thinking problems than those without sleep apnea symptoms, even after controlling for other variables like age, race, gender, and education.
“These findings highlight the importance of early screening for sleep apnea,” Low stated. “There are several accessible effective therapies, such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) equipment. A person’s quality of life may be enhanced by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising often, interacting with others, and receiving cognitive stimulation. In the end, these factors may lower a person’s risk of thinking and memory issues.”
One survey provided the data for the study, and participants self-reported their symptoms rather than having their symptoms evaluated by medical specialists. These are some of the study’s limitations. Further research is required to track people’s symptoms of sleep apnea, memory, and thinking over time.
-Raja Aditya
