Sleep Apnea Doubles Stroke Risk in Elders

Researchers found that sleep apnea in elders is a key factor that can lead to stroke. In fact, a recent study shows that older people with breathing problems while sleeping [ADMAR=1]are twice as likely to suffer from a stroke than elders that do not experience these problems.

Sleep apnea represents cessation of breath while sleeping and it is caused by the obstruction of the upper respiratory airways. Usually, sleep apnea is recurring and is associated with decreased blood oxygen saturation. This respiratory disorder leads to heavy snoring, headaches that occur in the morning, high blood pressure, weight gain, various sleep disorders and excessive sleepiness during daytime.

The study was conducted by a research team from the Hospital de Navarra in Spain, lead by Dr. Roberto Munoz. The medical experts investigated medical data of 394 individuals with ages ranging from 70 to 100 years. The study lasted for 6 years and involved volunteers that did not present any stroke symptoms at the beginning of the research.

During the following 6 year period, 20 of the participants in the study experienced strokes. After thoroughly investigating factors that had led to stroke in the deceased individuals, scientists that carried out the study reached the conclusion that persons that suffered from severe sleep apnea at the outset of the research were 2, 5 times more likely to experience a stroke.

"Sleep apnea is two to three times more common in the elderly compared to middle-aged people. However, typical symptoms of sleep apnea, such as loud snoring or excessive daytime sleepiness, are less prevalent in the elderly compared to middle-aged people. We should be aware of these symptoms, and specifically look for the presence of repetitive breathing pauses in our patients and relatives," Dr. Munoz pointed out.