Association between habitual naps and sleep apnea

Juan F Masa1, Manuela Rubio, Puerto Pérez

  • 1Respiratory Service, San Pedro de Alcántara Hospital, Cáiceres, Spain. fmasa@separ.es

Sleep
|December 14, 2006
PubMed
Summary

Afternoon napping is linked to a higher prevalence of sleep apnea, a condition that may explain increased cardiovascular risks in nappers. Further research into napping habits could identify individuals needing sleep apnea treatment.

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