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Is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome associated with headache?
R Jensen1, C Olsborg, R Salvesen
1Department of Neurology, Tromsø University Hospital Department of Neurology, Nordland Central Hospital, Bodø, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway. svein.ivar.bekkelund@unn.no
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|February 7, 2004
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) is not more common in headache patients than in the general population. This study suggests OSA does not cause headaches in most referred neurology patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) is prevalent, with a reported association with headaches.
- The underlying mechanisms linking OSA and headaches remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of OSA in a headache patient cohort.
- To investigate the potential link between OSA and headaches using questionnaires and polysomnography (PSG).
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to new neurology outpatients with headaches over two years.
- Patients completed a 30-day headache diary.
- High-risk patients underwent polysomnography (PSG) for OSA diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Out of 903 headache patients, 8% reported snoring and breathing interruptions.
- Polysomnography (PSG) confirmed OSA in 14 patients (1.5% of total).
- Eleven OSA patients reported morning headaches.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of OSA in headache patients referred to specialists is similar to the general population.
- The findings do not support OSA as a primary cause of headaches in this selected group.