New Study Reveals Link Between Sleep Apnea and Cognitive Decline for the First Time

We all know that poor sleep is not conducive to good health. It can lead to a host of problems such as high blood pressure, obesity, and even heart attacks. But, did you know that it could also be linked to cognitive decline and brain damage? For the first time, a new study has revealed a direct link between sleep apnea and cognitive decline.

The Study

The study, published in JAMA Neurology, followed over 2,000 adults aged between 55 and 90 years from three different cohorts for a period of 5 years. Over this time, they were given neuropsychological tests to determine their cognitive abilities. Additionally, they were screened for sleep apnea using a test called the polysomnography. This test is used to measure the severity of sleep apnea by monitoring breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels while sleeping.

The results showed that individuals with sleep apnea had a higher risk of cognitive impairment and an increased chance of developing dementia. The more severe the sleep apnea, the greater the risk of cognitive impairment. This is concerning when you consider that sleep apnea is a very common condition that often goes undiagnosed.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects around 20 million Americans. It is caused by a blockage of the upper airway during sleep, which leads to interrupted breathing and short pauses in breathing. These pauses can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes and can occur dozens of times per night. As a result, the individual is not getting enough oxygen, which can lead to a host of health problems.

What Can Be Done?

The good news is that sleep apnea can be treated. The most common form of treatment is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This involves wearing a mask over the nose and/or mouth while sleeping, which delivers a constant flow of air to keep the airway open.

Other treatments include dental devices that can reposition the tongue and lower jaw, surgery to remove excess tissue in the airway, and lifestyle changes such as losing weight, sleeping on your side, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives.

Summary

A new study published in JAMA Neurology has revealed a direct link between sleep apnea and cognitive decline. The study found that individuals with sleep apnea have a higher risk of cognitive impairment and an increased chance of developing dementia. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects around 20 million Americans and can be treated with options such as CPAP or surgery.

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