Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to nonsleepy apnea

Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2007 Jul 1;176(1):6-9. doi: 10.1164/rccm.200606-795PP. Epub 2007 Apr 12.

Abstract

Epidemiological and observational studies suggest that sleep-disordered breathing is associated with the subsequent development of hypertension and ultimately with cardiovascular consequences. It may therefore be assumed that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) not only avoids sleep-related symptoms but could also mitigate cardiovascular consequences. Short-term studies have revealed a drop in blood pressure, especially in more severe, symptomatic cases of obstructive sleep apnea. Two recent studies have reported that nonsleepy obstructive sleep apnea is associated with an absence of reduced blood pressure after CPAP treatment. This suggests that this group of patients is less susceptible to the consequences of apneas, even those with mild-moderate hypertension or other cardiovascular disorders. However, in patients with severe cardiovascular disease or a higher number of obstructive events, CPAP treatment should be seriously considered.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Pressure
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / complications
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / therapy*
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure*
  • Humans
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / complications
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / diagnosis
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / therapy*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / etiology
  • Treatment Outcome