Sleep Disorders and Stroke: Pathophysiological Links, Clinical Implications, and Management Strategies.
Jamir Pitton Rissardo1, Ibrahim Khalil2, Mohamad Taha3
1Neurology Department, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ 08103, USA.
Medical Sciences (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 22, 2025
Summary
Sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea increase stroke risk and hinder recovery. Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep issues in stroke patients are crucial for better outcomes and reduced recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Cardiovascular Science
Background:
- Sleep disorders and stroke share a complex, bidirectional relationship.
- Sleep disturbances, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), insomnia, and restless legs syndrome (RLS), elevate stroke risk.
- Stroke can trigger or worsen sleep disorders, impacting recovery and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the intricate relationship between sleep disorders and stroke.
- To highlight the impact of sleep disturbances on stroke risk and post-stroke recovery.
- To emphasize the need for early diagnosis and integrated management of sleep disorders in stroke care.
Main Methods:
- This narrative review synthesizes current evidence from existing literature.
- It examines the mechanisms linking sleep disorders to stroke incidence and consequences.
- The review discusses current and emerging therapeutic strategies for sleep disorders in stroke patients.
Main Results:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly increases stroke risk (2-3 fold) via mechanisms like intermittent hypoxia and inflammation.
- Post-stroke sleep disturbances are prevalent, underdiagnosed, and negatively affect rehabilitation and cognitive function.
- Effective management strategies, including CPAP, lifestyle changes, and pharmacological treatments, are available.
Conclusions:
- Addressing sleep disorders is critical for optimizing stroke recovery and preventing recurrence.
- Integrated, multidisciplinary approaches and improved diagnostic tools are needed for comprehensive stroke care.
- Further research into non-OSA sleep disorders and their stroke impact is essential.
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