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REM-sleep-hypertension in obstructive sleep apnea
1Medizinische Poliklinik, Schlafmedizinisches Labor, Universit-atsklinikum, Philipps-Universit-at Marburg, Baldingerstrasse Marburg D-35043, Germany.
European Journal of Medical Research
|December 18, 1995
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) alters blood pressure (BP) during REM sleep. "REM sleep non dippers" with OSAS show elevated BP, indicating potential vascular risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sleep Medicine
- Hypertension Research
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is linked to altered 24-hour blood pressure (BP) profiles.
- Hypertension is a common comorbidity in OSAS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of REM sleep on the 24-hour BP cycle in severe OSAS male patients with hypertension.
- To compare BP during REM sleep versus quiet wakefulness in OSAS patients.
Main Methods:
- Continuous arterial BP monitoring over 24 hours after brachial artery cannulation.
- Polysomnography to identify REM sleep periods.
- Correlation of sleep/wake data with cardiovascular variables (BP, HR).
Main Results:
- 8 OSAS patients ('dippers') showed a normal BP drop during REM sleep (-10.8 mmHg).
- 8 OSAS patients ('REM sleep non dippers') exhibited elevated BP during REM sleep (+18.9 mmHg).
Conclusions:
- The absence of a normal BP dip during nocturnal REM sleep in OSAS patients ('REM sleep non dippers') may signify increased vascular risk.
- REM sleep BP regulation is significantly altered in severe OSAS.