New Study: CPAP Therapy Yields Positive Results

Researchers in Italy recently discovered that patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) were experiencing more than just decreased sleep and discomfort. It turns out that in a sleep study of 32 patients, the 17 who had OSA experienced reductions of gray brain tissue volume and an associated decrease in neuropsychologic performance.

In the study, magnetic resonance imaging and a technique called voxel-based morphometry were used to measure gray brain matter in patients’ cerebral cortexes. Gray matter refers to the area of the brain known as the cerebral cortex and is where people process the majority of their information. According to the study, OSA patients’ slow reactions and mental confusion is due to more than just lack of sleep. OSA actually reduces the amount of vital gray matter in each person tested.

The study went on to show that after only 3 months of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, all 17 of the OSA patients experienced significant spikes in levels of gray matter. Response times and general feelings of wellness were restored in all patients tested.

So how do you know if you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

OSA is a condition that affects more than 12 million people in the United States alone. Patients with OSA have trouble breathing while they are sleeping. Their breath can slow and even stop multiple times a night. Most patients who have OSA aren’t aware of their problem. It’s most often a partner or friend who observes the abnormal sleep patterns.

Typical symptoms associated with OSA are daytime sleepiness, sore throats in the morning, intellectual impairment and irritability, night sweats, restlessness during sleep, sexual dysfunction, snoring, and the sensation of gasping or choking during sleep.

If you or someone you know experiences any of those symptoms, see a doctor and ask about starting beneficial CPAP therapy.