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Sleep apnea and sports performance
Helene A Emsellem1, Karen E Murtagh
1The Center for Sleep & Wake Disorders, 5454 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1725, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA. sleepdoc@sleepdoc.com
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|May 17, 2005
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea significantly impacts physical and mental health, affecting sleep, mood, and cardiovascular function. Its prevalence and effects on athletic performance require further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Sleep Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent condition with significant health implications.
- Growing recognition of OSA's impact on physical and mental well-being.
- Limited understanding of OSA's prevalence and effects in athletic populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnea.
- To discuss diagnostic modalities for identifying OSA.
- To explore treatment interventions for OSA, particularly in athletes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on obstructive sleep apnea.
- Analysis of current diagnostic techniques for OSA.
- Synthesis of established and emerging treatment strategies for OSA.
Main Results:
- Obstructive sleep apnea negatively affects sleep quality, alertness, mood, and cardiovascular health.
- Potential for OSA to impact athletic performance is under-researched.
- Anatomical features and specific symptoms warrant a high suspicion for OSA.
Conclusions:
- Obstructive sleep apnea is a critical disorder with broad health consequences.
- Further research is needed on OSA prevalence and its impact on athletes.
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for OSA in at-risk individuals.