REM-related obstructive sleep apnea and vertigo: A retrospective case-control study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Sleep Medicine
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is increasingly recognized for its potential neurotological consequences.
• Previous studies indicate a significant association between sleep apnea and increased incidence of vertigo and tinnitus.
• The specific link between OSA and vertigo, especially concerning sleep stages, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between vertigo and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
• To determine if specific sleep patterns in OSA are associated with vertigo.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study was conducted at Shuang Ho Hospital from May to October 2018.
• Patients diagnosed with OSA via polysomnography (PSG) were categorized into a Vertigo group (n=58) and a control group (n=113).
• Exclusion criteria included head injury, brain tumors, headache history, and hearing loss.

Main Results:

• Patients with vertigo exhibited a significantly higher proportion of REM-related OSA (41.3%) compared to the control group (15.9%) (P<0.001).
• The average age and BMI were higher in the vertigo group, while the control group had a higher Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) score.
• These findings suggest a strong association between vertigo and REM-related OSA.

Conclusions:

• Vertigo patients demonstrate a higher prevalence of REM-related OSA.
• The acceptance rate for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy in these patients is notably low.
• Further research is essential to develop novel therapeutic strategies for REM-related OSA in vertigo patients.