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Primary open-angle glaucoma is associated with sleep apnea syndrome
D S Mojon1, C W Hess, D Goldblum
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bern, Switzerland. daniel.mojon@kssg.ch
Summary
Primary open-angle glaucoma patients show a higher prevalence of sleep apnea syndrome. Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea syndrome are crucial for preventing related cardiovascular and neurological issues.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sleep Medicine
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- The causes of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) are not fully understood, but vascular issues and sleep disorders like sleep apnea syndrome are potential risk factors.
- Sleep apnea syndrome involves repeated airway obstructions during sleep, leading to hypoxia and sleep disruption, which can cause cardiovascular and neurological problems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of sleep apnea syndrome in patients diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma.
Main Methods:
- Overnight transcutaneous finger oximetry was conducted on 30 consecutive primary open-angle glaucoma patients.
- The oximetry disturbance index was measured to diagnose and assess the severity of sleep apnea syndrome during sleep.
Main Results:
- Sleep apnea syndrome was found to be more common in primary open-angle glaucoma patients than in age- and sex-matched healthy controls.
- The oximetry disturbance index was significantly higher in the POAG group compared to controls.
- Twenty percent (6 out of 30) of POAG patients were diagnosed with sleep apnea syndrome based on the oximetry disturbance index.
Conclusions:
- A significant association exists between primary open-angle glaucoma and sleep apnea syndrome.
- Prompt identification and management of sleep apnea syndrome are essential to mitigate risks of associated cardiovascular and neurological complications.