A study published in the journal Neurology indicates that
poor quality rest and low blood oxygen level during sleep could increase the
likelihood of diminished mental faculties in older men. Though this research
doesn’t establish a causal relationship between sleep apnea and
dementia, patients with sleep and breathing disorders could be more at risk of experiencing
negative effects on the brain.
Researchers found that the brains of subjects who had sleep
apnea showed evidence of atrophied tissue and abnormalities called
microinfarcts. These irregularities in the brain are more common in people who
develop dementia than those who don’t have the condition.
Dementia is a series of symptoms most commonly caused by
Alzheimer’s disease. Patients with dementia suffer a severe deterioration of mental
capabilities including:
·
Memory
·
Motor skills
·
Organizational abilities
·
Clear and accurate speech
·
Reasoning and problem solving
·
Navigation – dementia patients can get lost even
in very familiar places
Patients who suffer dementia also experience behavioral
changes. The decline in mental clarity can lead to emotional outbursts, sudden
mood swings, and irritability.
Obviously, dementia is a sign of a major health issue. Sleep
apnea is also a dangerous condition because of the impact gaps in breathing can
have on multiple systems in the body, including the brain.
If you suspect you or a family member is suffering from
sleep apnea, please contact a
local specialist or call 1 (866)
727-6275 (1-8-NO-PAP-MASK)
today.