The Link between Sleep Apnea and Cognitive Decline: What You Need to Know
More than 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder characterized by breathing interruptions throughout the night. People with sleep apnea stop breathing for several seconds, leading to a drop in oxygen levels and a disruption in the sleep cycle. A common, yet often overlooked consequence of sleep apnea is cognitive decline.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder that affects both adults and children. It is caused by the relaxation of the muscles in the throat, tongue, and mouth, which narrow or close the airway during sleep. As a result, the brain senses a lack of oxygen and wakes the person up to breathe, briefly interrupting refreshing sleep cycles. This pattern can repeat hundreds of times every night, leading to daytime sleepiness, irritability, and decreased cognitive function.
Sleep Apnea and Cognitive Decline
Research has shown that sleep apnea is associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of developing dementia. A study published in JAMA Neurology in 2015 found that people with moderate to severe sleep apnea had a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to those without sleep apnea. Another study conducted in 2017 found that untreated sleep apnea caused a decrease in gray matter in the brain, leading to cognitive impairment.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Treatment for sleep apnea can improve cognitive function and prevent the progression of cognitive decline. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most common therapy for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth during sleep that delivers a constant stream of air to keep the airway open. This prevents interruptions in breathing and improves sleep quality. Other treatments for sleep apnea include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and exercise, and positional therapy, which involves sleeping in a certain position to prevent airway obstruction.
Conclusion
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent cognitive decline and other serious health consequences. With the right treatment, it is possible to manage sleep apnea and improve overall health and well-being.
