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[Sleep apnea syndrome in the elderly]
D Planchard1, F Moreau, J Paquereau
1Service de Pneumologie, CHU de Poitiers, 350, avenue Jacques Coeur, Poitiers, France.
Revue Des Maladies Respiratoires
|October 7, 2003
Summary
Sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (SAHS) in the elderly is common and treatable. Effective treatments like CPAP improve sleepiness and cognitive function, justifying intervention based on symptom severity.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Sleep Medicine
- Respiratory Medicine
Context:
- Sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (SAHS) presents unique challenges in the elderly.
- Age-related comorbidities can exacerbate SAHS or mask its typical symptoms.
- Prevalence in the elderly averages 25%, potentially higher with co-existing conditions.
Purpose:
- To review the distinct characteristics of SAHS in the elderly.
- To discuss the clinical manifestations, particularly excessive daytime sleepiness and cognitive decline.
- To evaluate treatment efficacy and decision-making in this population.
Summary:
- SAHS is prevalent in the elderly, often presenting with neurological symptoms like daytime sleepiness and cognitive impairment.
- Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most effective treatment, with good patient acceptance and compliance.
- Weight reduction is recommended for obese patients; surgery is not indicated.
Impact:
- Treatment of SAHS in the elderly is fully justified by its effectiveness.
- Therapeutic decisions should be guided by the severity of clinical symptoms.
- Improved management can enhance quality of life and cognitive function in older adults with SAHS.