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Sleep-disordered breathing among patients with first-ever stroke
T E Wessendorf1, H Teschler, Y M Wang
1Department of Neurology, Fachklinik Rhein/Ruhr, Essen, Germany. 100121.1000@compuserve.com
Journal of Neurology
|March 4, 2000
Summary
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), often obstructive sleep apnea, is common in stroke patients. Screening for SDB is recommended during stroke examination due to its high prevalence and links to vascular risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), particularly obstructive sleep apnea, is a potential risk factor for stroke.
- Understanding the incidence and characteristics of SDB in stroke survivors is crucial for risk stratification and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and types of SDB in patients with first-ever stroke.
- To investigate the relationship between SDB and established stroke risk factors.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey involving 147 stroke patients (mean age 61 years) admitted to a neurological rehabilitation department.
- Full polysomnography was conducted to assess SDB, with analysis of respiratory disturbance index (RDI), sleep stages, and associated clinical data.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of SDB (RDI ≥ 5) was high at 61%, decreasing with higher RDI cutoffs (44% for RDI ≥ 10, 32% for RDI ≥ 15, 22% for RDI ≥ 20).
- Obstructive SDB was dominant. Patients with RDI ≥ 20 exhibited reduced REM sleep, thicker necks, central obesity, and higher rates of hypertension and coronary heart disease.
- Subjective sleepiness was not a predominant symptom even in severe SDB cases.
Conclusions:
- SDB is highly prevalent in patients following a first-ever stroke.
- Clinical examination of stroke patients should incorporate screening for SDB to identify potential contributing factors and guide further management.