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Investigating the relationship between stroke and obstructive sleep apnea
M E Dyken1, V K Somers, T Yamada
1Department of Neurology, Sleep Disorders Center, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, 52242, USA.
Stroke
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Patients with recent stroke have a significantly higher incidence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) compared to healthy individuals. This increased prevalence of sleep apnea in stroke patients may contribute to their condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder.
- The relationship between OSA and stroke incidence requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively compare the incidence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients who recently experienced a stroke versus a sex- and age-matched control group without major medical issues.
Main Methods:
- Prospective overnight polysomnography was conducted on 24 recent stroke patients and 27 control subjects.
- Participants included individuals with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, evaluated 2-5 weeks post-stroke.
Main Results:
- OSA was diagnosed in 77% of male stroke patients versus 23% of male controls (P=.0169).
- OSA was diagnosed in 64% of female stroke patients versus 14% of female controls (P=.0168).
- Stroke patients exhibited significantly higher apnea/hypopnea indices, and all stroke patients who died within 4 years had OSA.
Conclusions:
- Stroke patients demonstrate a markedly increased incidence of obstructive sleep apnea compared to matched controls.
- Hypoxia and hemodynamic changes associated with OSA may predispose individuals to stroke.