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Sleep-related breathing disorders and headache
F Provini1, R Vetrugno, E Lugaresi
1Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Ugo Foscolo 7, I-40123, Bologna, Italy. federica.provini@unibo.it
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is linked to morning headaches. Successful treatment of OSAS often resolves these headaches, suggesting a causal relationship.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) affects 2% of women and 4% of men.
- Headaches, especially morning headaches, are reported more frequently in OSAS patients, though findings are debated.
- Successful OSAS treatment often alleviates headaches, implying a connection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome and headaches, particularly morning headaches.
- To explore potential mechanisms linking OSAS to headache pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on OSAS and headache prevalence.
- Analysis of factors potentially contributing to headache in OSAS patients.
Main Results:
- Headaches, particularly morning headaches, appear more common in individuals with OSAS.
- Headache resolution is frequently observed after successful OSAS treatment.
- Proposed mechanisms include nocturnal oxygen desaturation, hypercapnia, vasodilation, and increased intracranial pressure.
Conclusions:
- A causal role for OSAS in headache, especially morning headaches, is supported by treatment outcomes.
- The precise mechanisms underlying OSAS-related headaches require further investigation.
- The relationship between OSAS, headache, and morning headaches remains a subject of ongoing research and controversy.