Snoring has a detrimental effect to your thinking.
A recent study suggests that sleep apnea may have adverse effects on brain function, potentially leading to memory and cognitive issues.
According to researchers, individuals with sleep apnea are approximately 50% more likely to report experiencing memory or cognitive problems compared to those without the condition.
Dr. Dominique Low, a clinical fellow at the Boston Medical Center, underscores the significance of early screening for sleep apnea in light of these findings.
Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often accompanied by symptoms such as snoring, gasping, and breathing pauses. These interruptions can result in chronic fatigue and mood disturbances due to disrupted sleep patterns and decreased oxygen levels in the blood.
The study, which surveyed nearly 4,300 participants about their sleep quality and cognitive function, revealed that approximately a quarter of respondents exhibited symptoms of sleep apnea.
Among those with sleep apnea, one-third reported experiencing memory or cognitive issues, in contrast to only 20% of individuals without the condition.
Dr. Low intends to present the study findings at the upcoming American Academy of Neurology annual meeting in April, emphasizing that research presented at such events should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.
The study underscores the importance of addressing sleep apnea as a serious health concern. Dr. Low highlights the availability of effective treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, which can significantly improve sleep quality and mitigate cognitive risks associated with sleep apnea.
In addition to CPAP therapy, Dr. Low emphasizes the importance of lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation, which collectively contribute to overall brain health and may reduce the risk of memory and cognitive impairments associated with sleep apnea, ultimately enhancing quality of life.
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