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Author Spotlight: Traditional Chinese Medicine for Sleep Disorders in Acute COPD — A Safe, Cost-Effective Approach
Published on: October 18, 2024
Does Obstructive Sleep Apnea Lead to Progression of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
1Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital Group, Dublin, Ireland; School of Medicine and the Conway Research Institute, University College, Dublin, Ireland.
Abstract:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have important bidirectional relationships that influence the pathophysiology of each disorder. The slim hyperinflated "pink puffer" phenotype of COPD protects against OSA, whereas the heavier "blue bloater" phenotype predisposes to OSA by fluid retention. OSA may aggravate COPD by promoting airway inflammation. COPD-OSA overlap patients have lower quality of life and are at higher risk of cardiovascular comorbidity than either disorder alone due to greater nocturnal oxygen desaturation and sympathetic activation. Management of OSA with positive airway pressure improves COPD outcomes that include lower exacerbation rates compared to untreated patients.
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