Obstructive sleep apnea and psychiatric disorders: a systematic review

Risk of obstructive sleep apnea after treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a cross-sectional study

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) or its treatment may be associated with an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, reported relationships between OSA risk factors and HNSCC are inconsistent. This study examined associations between tumor variables and risk of OSA at least one year after completion of treatment for HNSCC.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included HNSCC patients of a large academic medical center. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years, cancer free for at least one year, with absence of tracheostomy or mental impairment. The STOP-BANG questionnaire, with a threshold ≥3, was used to classify HNSCC patients into elevated and low OSA risk. Tumor characteristics and treatment types were obtained from medical records. Descriptive statistics were used to compare characteristics between OSA risk groups. Unadjusted and age-adjusted logistic and linear regression models were used to explore associations between exposures and OSA risk.

RESULTS

Among 67 participants, 85% were males, mean age was 62.0 years (8.0 SD), mean body mass index was 28.7 kg/m² (4.6 SD), and mean neck circumference was 16.3 inches (1.2 SD). Three-quarters of participants received chemoradiation only. Elevated OSA risk was observed in 60% of the participants. Tumor location, tumor stage, and type of cancer treatment were not different between OSA risk groups. Hyperlipidemia was more common in the elevated OSA risk group vs. the low risk (n=16, 40% vs. n=2, 7%, p=0.004). Age-adjusted analysis showed a trend toward twofold increased odds of elevated OSA risk in patients with tumors at the base of the tongue in comparison to other locations (OR=2.3, 95% CI 0.9, 6.4). No associations between tumor stage, cancer treatment, and elevated OSA risk were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated OSA risk was common after HNSCC treatment. However, measured HNSCC characteristics generally were not different between elevated and low OSA risk groups. Given the high frequency of OSA that appears likely to exist in HNSCC patients, clinicians should inquire about OSA features in patients with a history of HNSCC.

A Narrative Review of the Association between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often co-morbid with implications for disease severity and treatment outcomes. OSA prevalence is higher in PTSD sufferers than in the general population, with a likely bidirectional effect of the two illnesses. There is substantial evidence to support the role that disturbed sleep may play in the pathophysiology of PTSD. Sleep disturbance associated with OSA may interfere with normal rapid eye movement (REM) functioning and thus worsen nightmares and sleep-related movements. Conversely, hyperarousal and hypervigilance symptoms of PTSD may lower the arousal threshold and thus increase the frequency of sleep fragmentation related to obstructive events. Treating OSA not only improves OSA symptoms, but also nightmares and daytime symptoms of PTSD. Evidence suggests that positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy reduces PTSD symptoms in a dose-dependent fashion, but also presents challenges to tolerance in the PTSD population. Alternative OSA treatments may be better tolerated and effective for improving both OSA and PTSD. Further research avenues will be introduced as we seek a better understanding of this complex relationship.

Association of healthy lifestyle with risk of obstructive sleep apnea: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

No studies investigated the whole effect of modifiable lifestyle factors on OSA risk. This study aimed to examine the individual and combined effects of lifestyle factors on OSA risk among Chinese adults.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 9733 participants aged 35 to 74 years from the baseline survey of Guangzhou Heart Study. OSA was evaluated by Berlin Questionnaire. The healthy lifestyle score (HLS), representing the overall effect of lifestyles, was derived from seven lifestyle factors: active smoking, passive smoking, alcohol, diet, waist-hip ratio, leisure-time physical activity, and mental status. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using the multivariate logistic regression model.

RESULTS

8107 participants were divided into the non-OSA group and 1626 participants into the OSA group. No passive smoking (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.74-0.94), healthy waist-hip ratio (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.58-0.77) and healthy mental status (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0. 29-0.73) were associated with a reduced risk of OSA after adjusting for confounders, while others not. Participants with higher HLS were negatively associated with OSA risk (P_-trend < 0.001). In comparison to the participants with 0-3 HLS, the OR for participants with 4, 5, 6, and 7 HLS was 0.68 (95% CI 0.56-0.84), 0.71 (95% CI 0.59-0.86), 0.62 (95% CI 0.51-0.76) and 0.49 (95% CI 0.37-0.65) after adjusting for confounders. Every 1-score increment of HLS was associated with a 13% lower risk of OSA.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that HLS reflecting the combined effect of multiple-dimensional lifestyle factors was inversely associated with OSA risk. Preventive strategies integrating multiple lifestyle factors may provide a more feasible approach for OSA prevention.

Association between depression and sleep apnoea: a Mendelian randomisation study

Background

Studies have reported a close relationship between depression and sleep apnoea, yet it is unknown whether these are causally related. Thus, we aimed to determine whether depression is associated with the aetiology of sleep apnoea.

Methods

We used publicly available genetic summary data from two large consortia: the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, with data from 36 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) closely associated with major depressive disorder (MDD), and the UK Biobank, including 456 736 patients with sleep apnoea and 766 964 controls. For Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis, we used the inverse-variance weighted method, weighted median method, MR-Egger regression, MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier test to retrieve summary data. Analyses were performed using the “TwoSampleMR” package in R.

Results

Out of the 36 SNPs associated with MDD, we found statistically significant evidence of a potential causal effect of MDD on the risk of sleep apnoea (OR 1.004, 95% CI 1.001–1.006; p=0.001). Similar results were obtained using the MR-Egger and weighted median methods. Additionally, we found no heterogeneity or pleiotropy.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that depression slightly increases the risk of sleep apnoea. Further investigation of the potential biological mechanisms is necessary.

The results of this study show that depression has a potential causal relationship with a higher risk of sleep apnoea, providing evidence for the role of depression in sleep apnoeahttps://bit.ly/3CJavif

Transition from APAP to CPAP may be a cost-effective health intervention in OSA patients

OBJECTIVE

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder associated with a significant economic burden. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and auto-titrating positive airway pressure (APAP) are recognized therapeutic options in patients with OSA, although treatment costs are higher with APAP. We conducted a study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness and potential cost savings resulting from the implementation of a protocol guiding the transition to CPAP in OSA patients previously treated with APAP.

METHODS

This prospective study included patients with OSA under APAP who were followed up at the Sleep Medicine outpatient clinic of a tertiary referral hospital between January 2019 and January 2021. Treatment was switched to CPAP in patients who met the following criteria: satisfactory adaptation and adherence to APAP, residual apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of < 5/hour, and no relevant air leaks. APAP and CPAP outcomes were compared and an estimate of the savings obtained by the transition from APAP to CPAP was calculated.

RESULTS

Ninety-three patients were included in the study. APAP and CPAP were both effective in correcting obstructive events and improving daytime sleepiness. No significant differences were found regarding treatment adherence and tolerance between both PAP modalities. The selection of fixed-pressure CPAP through 90th or 95th percentile APAP pressure proved to be effective and an alternative strategy to titration polysomnography. At the end of this two-year study, the transition from APAP to CPAP enabled savings of at least 10,353€.

CONCLUSION

The transition from APAP to CPAP may be an effective, well-tolerated, safe, and cost-saving strategy in patients with OSA.

Association and Risk Factors for Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition. Epidemiologic studies show that sleep apnea increases cardiovascular diseases risk factors including hypertension, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. OSA is also responsible for serious illnesses such as congestive heart failure, stroke, arrhythmias, and bronchial asthma. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate evidence for the association between OSA and cardiovascular disease morbidities and identify risk factors for the conditions. In a review of 34 studies conducted in 28 countries with a sample of 37,599 people, several comorbidities were identified in patients with severe OSA—these were: heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, asthma, COPD, acute heart failure, chronic heart failure, hyperlipidemia, thyroid disease, cerebral infarct or embolism, myocardial infarction, and psychological comorbidities including stress and depression. Important risk factors contributing to OSA included: age > 35 years; BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²; alcoholism; higher Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS); mean apnea duration; oxygen desaturation index (ODI); and nocturnal oxygen desaturation (NOD). Severe OSA (AHI ≥ 30) was significantly associated with excessive daytime sleepiness and oxygen desaturation index. The risk of OSA and associated disease morbidities can be reduced by controlling overweight/obesity, alcoholism, smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Anxiety-Related Conditions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides a synopsis of current assessment and treatment considerations for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related anxiety disorder characteristics. Epidemiologic and neurobiological data are reviewed as well as common associated symptoms, including sleep disruption, and treatment approaches to these conditions.

RECENT FINDINGS

PTSD is no longer considered an anxiety-related disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition classification and instead is associated with trauma/stressor-related disorders. PTSD symptoms are clustered into four domains including intrusive experiences, avoidance, mood, and arousal symptoms. Despite this reclassification, similarities exist in consideration of diagnosis, treatment, and comorbidities with anxiety disorders. PTSD and anxiety-related disorders are heterogeneous, which is reflected by the neural circuits involved in the genesis of symptoms that may vary across symptom domains. Treatment is likely to benefit from consideration of this heterogeneity.Research in animal models of fear and anxiety, as well as in humans, suggests that patients with PTSD and generalized anxiety disorder have difficulty accurately determining safety from danger and struggle to suppress fear in the presence of safety cues.Empirically supported psychotherapies commonly involved exposure (fear extinction learning) and are recommended for PTSD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective in other anxiety-related disorders. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly used in the treatment of PTSD and anxiety disorders in which pharmacologic intervention is supported. Treating sleep disruption including sleep apnea (continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP]), nightmares, and insomnia (preferably via psychotherapy) may improve symptoms of PTSD, as well as improve mood in anxiety disorders.

SUMMARY

PTSD has a lifetime prevalence that is close to 10% and shares neurobiological features with anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are the most common class of mental conditions and are highly comorbid with other disorders; treatment considerations typically include cognitive-behavioral therapy and pharmacologic intervention. Developing technologies show some promise as treatment alternatives in the future.

Investigating Poor Sleep Quality and Associated Factors During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Population-Based Survey in Bangladesh

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has adversely affected the sleep quality of individuals, and is a poorly investigated area. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence estimate of poor sleep quality and its associated factors among Bangladeshi residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was carried out from July 20 to August 5, 2020, involving 975 Bangladeshi residents (male: 54.2%; mean age: 26.7 ± 9.4 years; age range: 18-75 years). A self-reported questionnaire was answered by the respondents, covering information on demographic characteristics, perceived physical health status, COVID-19-related factors, COVID-19-induced anxiety assessment, and sleep quality. To assess sleep quality, the Bangla version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used. Logistic regression models were performed to analyze the factors associated with sleep quality. Results: The prevalence estimate of poor sleep quality was 55.1% among the Bangladeshi people during the COVID-19 pandemic. As per the multiple regression analysis, poor sleep quality was significantly higher among respondents who reported female gender, moderate/poor health status, indirect contact with COVID-19 infected patients, decreased household income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fear of infection, and COVID-19-induced anxiety. Conclusion: Poor sleep quality was slightly prevalent among general people in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings indicate an immediate response for this vulnerable group to improve the sleep quality during the public health emergency of COVID-19.

The relationships between obstructive sleep apnea and psychiatric disorders: a narrative review

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder. Its prevalence tends to increase worldwide. Untreated sleep apnea is associated with a higher risk of metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, road accidents, and death, but also it is suggested that it increases the risk of mental disorders.

Method: The literature review was based on a search of articles on Medline, Pubmed, and Google Scholar from 2003 to 2021 using the keywords: obstructive sleep apnea; mental disorders; cognitive functions; affective disorders; depression; bipolar disorder; schizophrenia; psychotic disorders. The analysis included original studies, meta-analysis, and review articles.

Discussion: The result obtained from researches published so far does not allow for drawing unequivocal conclusions. There is a lot of bias present in study protocols and inclusion/exclusion criteria. Nonetheless, it seems that some disorders have a better proven correlation with OSA. Cognitive impairment, depression, and anxiety disorders are linked to OSA not only in terms of the overlapping of symptoms but also of a causal relationship. Psychotic disorders and bipolar disorders connections with OSA are confirmed, but they are not yet well understood. All correlations are found to be possibly bidirectional.

Conclusion: 1. Multiple lines of evidence increasingly point towards a bidirectional connection between OSA and mental disorders, and the cause and effect relationship between these two groups of disorders requires further research.

2. Due to reports of an increased risk of OSA with antipsychotic drugs, caution should be exercised when initiating therapy with this type of drug in patients with known risk factors for it.

3. Screening for OSA in psychiatric patients should be introduced as OSA can increase cognitive impairment, affective, and psychotic symptoms.

Sleep apnoea in the elderly: a great challenge for the future

Due in part to overall improvements in health, the population of elderly individuals is increasing rapidly. Similarly, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is both gaining increased recognition and also increasing due to the worldwide obesity epidemic. The overlap of OSA and aging is large, but there is strong plausibility for causation in both directions: OSA is associated with pathological processes that may accelerate aging and aging related processes; aging may cause physical and neurological changes that predispose to obstructive (and central) apnoea. In addition, the common symptoms (e.g. excessive daytime somnolence, defects in memory and cognition), possible physiological consequences of OSA (e.g. accelerated cardiovascular and cerebrovascular atherosclerosis), and changes in metabolic and inflammatory markers overlap with the symptoms and associated conditions seen in aging. There is also the possibility of synergy in the effects of these symptoms and conditions on quality of life, as well as a need to separate treatable consequences of OSA from age-related complaints. Taken together, the above make it essential to review the interaction of OSA and aging, both proven and suspected. The present review examines some aspects of what is known and points to the need for further investigation of the relationships, given the large number of potentially affected subjects.

Association of sleep apnea with outcomes in peripheral artery disease: Insights from the PORTRAIT study

BACKGROUND

Sleep apnea is a predictor of adverse cardiovascular outcome in many cardiovascular diseases but whether it is associated with worse health status outcomes or mortality in peripheral artery disease (PAD) is unknown.

METHODS

PORTRAIT is an international (US, Netherlands, Australia) prospective PAD registry that consecutively enrolled patients who presented with new-onset or recent exacerbations of PAD symptoms to any of 16 vascular specialty clinics. Health status was assessed upon presentation and at 12 months with the disease-specific Peripheral Artery Questionnaire (PAQ). Higher PAQ scores indicate better health status. A sequentially-adjusted hierarchical linear regression model examined the association between sleep apnea and 1-year PAQ symptoms, quality of life, and summary scores. Five-year survival curves by comorbid sleep apnea status for US patients were compared using the log-rank test.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 1204 PORTRAIT participants was 67.6 ± 9.4 years with 37.5% women and 8.3% (n = 100) having sleep apnea. Patients with sleep apnea were more likely to be from the US, more sedentary, and to have diabetes, obesity, coronary disease, more depressive symptoms and a history of prior peripheral interventions. Paradoxically, they also had higher ankle-brachial indices, but lower PAQ Summary scores at presentation and 12 months (41.2 ± 22.0 vs. 49. 9± 21.6 and 58.6 ± 27.9 vs. 71.3 ± 24.9, respectively, p = <0.05). The association between sleep apnea and 1-year health status persisted after multivariable adjustment, but there were no differences in all-cause mortality over 5 years (28.0% vs. 23.4%, p = 0.76).

CONCLUSION

In patients presenting with PAD, comorbid sleep apnea is independently associated with worse health status over time. Future studies should test whether better treatment of sleep apnea can improve the health status of patients with PAD.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01419080.

The Many Faces of Sleep Disorders in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: An Update on Clinical Features and Treatment

Sleep disorders and nightmares are core symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The relationship seems to be bidirectional, and persistent disturbed sleep may influence the course of the disorder. With regard to sleep quality, insomnia and nocturnal anxiety symptoms, as well as nightmares and stressful dreams, are the most prominent sleep symptoms. Polysomnographic measurements reveal alterations of the sleep architecture and fragmentation of rapid eye movement sleep. In addition, sleep disorders, such as sleep-related breathing disorders and parasomnias are frequent comorbid conditions. The complex etiology and symptomatology of trauma-related sleep disorders with frequent psychiatric comorbidity require the application of multimodal treatment concepts, including psychological and pharmacological interventions. However, there is little empirical evidence on the effectiveness of long-term drug treatment for insomnia and nightmares. For nondrug interventions, challenges arise from the current lack of PTSD-treatment concepts integrating sleep- and trauma-focused therapies. Effective therapy for sleep disturbances may consequently also improve well-being during the day and probably even the course of PTSD. Whether early sleep interventions exert a preventive effect on the development of PTSD remains to be clarified in future studies.

The mediation effect of depression and alcohol use disorders on the association between post-traumatic stress disorder and obstructive sleep apnea risk in 51,149 Korean firefighters: PTSD and OSA in Korean firefighters

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is shown to be linked to a higher risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Firefighters are at high risk for PTSD given the increased exposure to trauma.  However, the relationship between PTSD and OSA remains unclear in firefighters. Moreover, alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and depression - also common in firefighters - show a high comorbidity rate with both PTSD and OSA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of PTSD, depression, and AUDs with OSA in a national sample of Korean firefighters.

METHODS

A total of 51,149 Korean firefighters completed self-reported questionnaires, assessing the severity of PTSD, OSA, depression, and alcohol misuse. Multivariable logistic regression and mediation analyses were performed.

RESULTS

PTSD, depression, and AUDs were significantly associated with OSA. In the mediation analyses, PTSD had both direct and indirect effects mediated by depression and AUDs on OSA. Depression had both direct and indirect effects on OSA, with the latter mediated by AUDs.

LIMITATIONS

First, high-risk of OSA was measured using the Berlin Questionnaire. Second, other medical comorbidities or mediation use were not considered. Third, self-report questionnaires were used for assessment, which are prone to subjectivity and recollection bias. Finally, the majority of the study population were male and all Korean, limiting generalizability.

CONCLUSIONS

PTSD had both direct and indirect effects on OSA, mediated by depression and AUDs. In patients with both PTSD and OSA, depression and AUD symptoms should be screened routinely.

Effect of continuous positive airway pressure on symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

PURPOSE

The objective was to assess the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We hypothesized a decrease in symptoms at follow-up, but that improvement relied on CPAP adherence.

METHODS

The sample comprised 468 patients (mean age 55.5 years (SD = 12.0), 72% men) with OSA who received CPAP at a Norwegian hospital. OSA was diagnosed according to standard respiratory polygraphy. Mean baseline respiratory event index (REI) was 28.4 (SD = 20.6). Symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed prior to CPAP treatment and at follow-up after a median of 20 weeks, range 6-52 weeks, with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Patients were classified as CPAP adherent (≥ 4 h per night) or non-adherent (< 4 h per night).

RESULTS

There was a significant decrease in anxiety scores from baseline (mean = 5.16, SD = 3.94) to follow-up (mean = 4.76, SD = 3.81), p < 0.001. Similarly, depression scores decreased from baseline (mean = 4.31, SD = 3.66) to follow-up (mean = 3.89, SD = 3.69), p < 0.001. Cohen's d (0.19 and 0.18, respectively) indicated small effect sizes. The reduction in anxiety scores did not depend on CPAP adherence (no interaction effect F(1, 466) = 0.422, p = 0.516), whereas the reduction in depression scores were seen only in the CPAP adherent group (interaction effect F(1, 466) = 7.738, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

We found a decrease in symptoms of anxiety and depression from baseline to follow-up of CPAP treatment. The improvement in symptoms of depression was depending on CPAP adherence. This underlines the importance of adherence for optimal effect of CPAP treatment.

Sleep Disorders and Mood, Anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders: Overview of Clinical Treatments in the Context of Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disruptions are frequently reported by persons with mood, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorders, and co-occur with psychiatric disorders. There is evidence that sleep disorders can predict the likelihood of developing a future psychiatric disorder and exacerbate existing symptoms. Understanding the inter-relationships between sleep and psychiatric disorders is important. The primary goals of this article are to describe the interactions between psychiatric and sleep disorders in the context of sleep disturbances, underscore the bidirectional effects of mental health treatments on sleep disorder outcomes, and provide general recommendations to optimize treatment in the context of sleep disturbances.

[Effects of continuous positive airway pressure on depression, anxiety and quality of life in obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome patients]

INTRODUCTION

The obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a chronic stressor that may alter the emotional state and quality of life (QOL) of patients suffering from it. In this work, we proposed to estimate the prevalence of depression and anxiety, to assess the QOL in a Tunisian population of apneic patients, and to assess their evolution under continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study, involving 33 apneic patients followed for SAHOS with moderate or severe class disease in the pneumology department at Hedi Chaker university hospital in Sfax, Tunisia. They received CPAP treatment for three months. We used an epidemiological record. Two scales, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), were completed before and after treatment to evaluate the effect of three months of treatment with CPAP.

RESULTS

The prevalence of depression in the study's patients, according to the HADS, was 45.5% and that of anxiety was 21.2%. After 3months of CPAP, the prevalence of depression and anxiety had become 18.2% and 6.1%, respectively. QOL was impaired in 81.8% of cases before treatment, according to the SF-36. This figure had decreased to 69.7% after 3months of treatment with CPAP. Apart from the third dimension (physical pain), all other dimensions were significantly improved after 3months of CPAP treatment. The treatment with CPAP induced a significant improvement in the average scores of depression (P<0.001), anxiety (P=0.002) and QOL (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results attest to the importance of the frequency of anxio-depressive disorders as well as an altered QOL in patients with OSAHS. CPAP treatment was shown to be effective in improving these parameters, but this efficacy was partial. Specialized care may be needed in cases of residual anxio-depressive symptoms.

A preliminary study on the relationship between sleep, depression and cardiovascular dysfunction in a 4 sample population

Background

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has been linked in the literature to poorer prognosis in patients with cardiovascular dysfunction, although the mechanisms of this relationship remain unclear. Underlying Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) serves as a potential candidate to explain this effect due to its downstream effects on inflammatory activation and decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, both of which have been shown to contribute to the pathophysiology of both MDD and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

This study utilizes overnight polysomnography and an inflammation panel to examine the links between cardiovascular dysfunction and sleep difficulties in control participants and patients diagnosed with SDB only, MDD only, and both SDB and MDD.

Results

Results demonstrate a strong positive relationship between sleep dysfunction and the nitric oxide synthesis inhibitor Symmetric Dimethyl Arginine (SDMA) in the MDD-only cohort, suggesting a link between SDMA-mediated NO dysregulation and CVD pathogenesis in individuals with MDD. Additionally, hypopneas, a form of sleep impairment characterized by partial reduction of airflow, were found to play a significant role in the relationship between SDB and cardiovascular dysfunction in MDD-only patients.

Conclusions

Results of this study demonstrate the need for widespread screening for SDB in MDD populations to detect predisposition to CVD, and also offer SDMA as a new potential target for CVD treatment in individuals with MDD.

Prevalence of risk for obstructive sleep apnea in patients with bipolar disorder

AIM

To evaluate the prevalence of risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among patients with bipolar disorder (BD).

METHODOLOGY

Eighty-seven patients with BD and 50 matched controls were assessed by using the Berlin questionnaire.

RESULTS

One-fifth of the patients with BD was found to be at high risk for OSA, compared to the 6% prevalence in the control group. Patients in high risk for OSA were more often females, had significantly higher body mass index, high waist circumference, and comorbid physical illnesses. In terms of pharmacotherapy, there was association of use of antipsychotics with higher risk of OSA at the trend level (p=0.052).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of high risk for OSA is significantly higher among patients with BD and higher prevalence is related to obesity and comorbid physical illnesses.

Increased Suicidality and Worse Outcomes in MDD Patients With OSA: A Nationwide Inpatient Analysis of 11 Years From 2006 to 2017

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common psychiatric disorder characterized by changes in mood, cognition, and physical symptoms. MDD has an approximate 18% prevalence of comorbid OSA. Several studies have looked into plausible mechanisms that have shown a strong relationship between OSA and MDD.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this study was to compare suicidal ideation/attempt among MDD patients with and without a comorbid diagnosis of OSA. The secondary objective was to compare the length of stay, total hospital charge, recurrent or severity of depression, and clinical comorbidities.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample dataset from 2006 to 2017. For data collection, we queried for all adult patients (age ≥ 18 y), with MDD as a primary indication of admission. Further, we categorized MDD patients with and without a secondary diagnosis of OSA. To reduce the imbalance in baseline characteristics between the groups, we performed one to one age-gender matching between MDD patients with and without OSA.

RESULTS

In the matched cohort, 79,308 patients were included in MDD with OSA and 78,792 patients in the MDD without OSA group. MDD patients with OSA were more likely to be racially white (80% vs 75%, P < 0.001), and to have more clinical comorbidities (hypertension, heart failure, obesity, and chronic lung disease). Prevalence of recurrent type of depression (77% vs 69%, P < 0.001) and moderate to severe depression (72% vs 68%, P < 0.001) was more likely in the MDD with OSA group. Further, suicidality (composite of suicidal ideation/attempt) was more in MDD with OSA (49.5%) compared to MDD without OSA (41.8%) (P < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, MDD with OSA was associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation/act compared to MDD without OSA (adjusted odds ratio: 1.27, P < 0.001). The total length of stay was longer in the MDD with OSA group (7.4 vs 6.9 d, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, poorer outcomes were observed in patients with MDD and OSA. Hence, clinicians should be vigilant for symptoms of OSA in patients with recurrent MDD or treatment-resistant MDD. We recommend that a thorough suicide risk assessment should be conducted in MDD patients with OSA, and validated questionnaires should be a part of the evaluation.

Association of obstructive sleep apnea risk with depression and anxiety symptoms in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine whether obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) risk is associated with depression and anxiety symptoms in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study of women with PCOS, by the Rotterdam criteria, seen at a single academic center between June 2017 and June 2020. Depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms and OSA risk were assessed with self-administered Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Berlin questionnaires, respectively. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the odds of moderate/severe symptoms of depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 10) and anxiety (GAD-7 ≥ 10) in the high-risk versus low-risk OSA groups. The primary multivariate model adjusted for age, body mass index (BMI), free testosterone and insulin resistance.

RESULTS

Of the 200 participants, the mean age was 28.0 years and 38% screened high-risk for OSA. Women who screened high-risk OSA had over three times the odds of moderate/severe depression (OR 3.19, 95% CI 1.76-5.78, P<0.001) and over two times the odds of having moderate/severe anxiety (OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.34-4.64, P=0.004). These associations were only slightly attenuated in the adjusted models: aOR for moderate/severe depression was 3.06 (95% CI 1.36-6.88, P=0.01) and aOR for moderate/severe anxiety was 2.39 (95% CI 1.03-5.59, P=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Among women with PCOS, those at high-risk of OSA experienced elevated depression and anxiety symptoms compared to those at low-risk for OSA, independent of the effects of age, BMI, hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance.

CPAP-SAVER follow-up study to determine long-term adherence and associated factors

BACKGROUND

Many factors contribute to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) nonadherence, affecting health care burden. The original CPAP-SAVER study enrolled 66 CPAP-naive participants and showed high 1-month adherence and significantly higher apnea beliefs and CPAP attitude for the intervention group.

PURPOSE AND METHODS

Thirty-three participants from the original CPAP-SAVER study were recruited for a 3-year follow-up to determine adherence, examine the intervention effect, and identify adherence-associated factors.

RESULTS

Adherence rates dropped to 54.5% at 3 years, with a significant decrease in CPAP use hours (t = -2.37, p = .024) and nights (t = -4.05, p < .001). Group differences in beliefs and attitude were not sustained; however, beliefs (r = 0.57) and attitude (r = 0.44) were significant factors associated with adherence. Life satisfaction was significantly higher at present compared with before wearing CPAP (t = 5.17, p < .001).

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The authors recommend intervention with a focus on apnea beliefs, CPAP attitude, and long-term support to promote CPAP adherence. Focus on CPAP attitude and beliefs and enhanced support early in the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment trajectory may promote long-term adherence and subsequently reduce the health care burden of OSA disease.

Association between anxiety, depression, and emotional distress and hypoglossal nerve stimulator adherence

PURPOSE

To evaluate relationships between hypoglossal nerve stimulator (HNS) adherence and the presence of anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study of subjects with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), who had HNS implanted and activated at The Ohio State University Medical Center (OSUMC). Patient usage data from the previous 6 months was obtained from 33 patients. Adherence was defined as ≥28 h of use per week. Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were administered, and the Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety and Depression Scale (PHQ-ADS) score was calculated for all subjects.

RESULTS

Sixty-five percent were adherent with average usage of 46.5±11.7 h per week vs 7.7±7.5 h per week in the non-adherent group. The average GAD-7 were 3.90±3.98 in the adherent group vs. 8.27±6.69 in the non-adherent group (p=0.049). PHQ-9 score was 6.15±4.31 vs. 10.09±7.53 (p=0.118), and PHQ-ADS was 10.05±7.49 vs. 19.20±9.80 (p=0.035). There were no statistically significant differences in age, gender, pre-treatment AHI, and post-treatment AHI between the two groups, though there was a trend to higher age in the adherent group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated higher GAD-7 and PHQ-ADS scores in the non-adherent group compared to those who were adherent to HNS supporting that anxiety and emotional distress may contribute to HNS therapy adherence. To our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the relationship between anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and HNS adherence. Screening patients with the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 prior to implantation may be helpful when evaluating patient adherence to therapy.

Effect of adenotonsillectomy in children with obstructive sleep apnea and major psychiatric disorders on obstructive apnea-hypopnea index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores

STUDY OBJECTIVES

This study evaluates the effectiveness of adenotonsillectomy in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in children with major psychiatric disorders as measured by polysomnography and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) at a tertiary children's hospital. Adults with major psychiatric disorders often have higher rates of obstructive sleep apnea and decreased response to treatment. The goal was to determine if children with serious mental illness had outcomes similar to their adult counterparts.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was undertaken to identify children with obstructive sleep apnea and major psychiatric disorders who underwent adenotonsillectomy as part of their treatment for obstructive sleep apnea and had undergone preoperative and postoperative polysomnography as well as ESS. A multivariable model was run for each of the postoperative outcomes (ESS, obstructive apnea-hypopnea index, or body mass index percentile), adjusting for their respective preoperative value, age, and group.

RESULTS

There were 34 patients who qualified for this study and who were matched with 66 controls. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of change in ESS, obstructive apnea-hypopnea index, or body mass index percentile, both before and after adjusting for age. The only significant findings were that preoperative ESS and body mass index percentile were predictive of postoperative ESS and body mass index percentile for both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with psychiatric disorders in our institution respond to surgical management of obstructive sleep apnea similar to pediatric controls without mental illness despite comorbidities and central-acting medications that may alter sleep.

Evaluation and Management of Adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common and underdiagnosed medical condition characterized by recurrent sleep-dependent pauses and reductions in airflow. While a narrow, collapsible oropharynx plays a central role in the pathophysiology of OSAS, there are other equally important nonanatomic factors including sleep-stage dependent muscle tone, arousal threshold, and loop gain that drive obstructive apneas and hypopneas. Through mechanisms of intermittent hypoxemia, arousal-related sleep fragmentation, and intrathoracic pressure changes, OSAS impacts multiple organ systems. Risk factors for OSAS include obesity, male sex, age, specific craniofacial features, and ethnicity. The prevalence of OSAS is rising due to increasing obesity rates and improved sensitivity in the tools used for diagnosis. Validated questionnaires have an important but limited role in the identification of patients that would benefit from formal testing for OSA. While an in-laboratory polysomnography remains the gold standard for diagnosis, the widespread availability and accuracy of home sleep apnea testing modalities increase access and ease of OSAS diagnosis for many patients. In adults, the most common treatment involves the application of positive airway pressure (PAP), but compliance continues to be a challenge. Alternative treatments including mandibular advancement device, hypoglossal nerve stimulator, positional therapies, and surgical options coupled with weight loss and exercise offer possibilities of an individualized personal approach to OSAS. Treatment of symptomatic patients with OSAS has been found to be beneficial with regard to sleep-related quality of life, sleepiness, and motor vehicle accidents. The benefit of treating asymptomatic OSA patients, particularly with regard to cardiovascular outcomes, is controversial and more data are needed.

The Microbiome in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Recent evidence has highlighted important associations between obstructive sleep apnea and the microbiome. Although the intricacies of the pathophysiologic mechanisms are not well understood, available evidence suggests a bidirectional relationship between OSA and microbiota composition. Sleep fragmentation, intermittent hypoxia, and intermittent hypercapnia all play significant roles in altering the microbiome, and initial evidence has shown that alterations of the microbiota affect sleep patterns. Animal model evidence strongly supports the idea that the microbiome mediates disease states associated with OSA including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and obesity. The majority of evidence focuses on changes in the gut microbiome, which may result from OSA as well as contribute to sleep pattern changes, OSA-related CVD, and obesity. Meanwhile, a developing body of work suggests changes in the upper airway microbiome may be associated with OSA and periodontitis-related oral cavity microbiome changes may have significance in OSA-related CVD. Lastly, while evidence is limited, several studies suggest there may be a role for treatment of OSA and OSA-related comorbidities through alteration of the microbiome with probiotics, prebiotics, and microbiota transplantation. These early animal and human studies begin to characterize the interrelationships of the microbiome and OSA and may lead to new avenues for treatment.

Intermittent Hypoxia Activates N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptors to Induce Anxiety Behaviors in a Mouse Model of Sleep-Associated Apnea

Sleep apnea disrupts physiologic homeostasis and causes neuronal dysfunction. In addition to signs of mental disorders and cognitive dysfunction, patients with sleep apnea have a higher anxiety rate. Here, we examined the mechanisms underlying this critical health issue. We used a mouse model with sleep-associated chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) to verify the effects of sleep apnea on neuronal dysfunction. To evaluate how IH alters neuronal function to yield anxiety-like behavior and cognitive dysfunction, we examined synaptic plasticity and neuronal inflammation in related brain areas, including the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), striatum, and hippocampus. Mice subjected to chronic IH for 10 days exhibited significant anxiety-like behaviors in the elevated plus maze test. IH mice spent less travel time in open arms and more travel time in enclosed arms compared to control mice. However, cognitive impairment was minimal in IH mice. Increased glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits 2B (GluN2B) and phosphorylated-ERK1/2 were seen in the mPFC, striatum, and hippocampus of IH mice, but no significant microglial and astrocyte activation was found in these brain areas. Chronic IH in mice induced compensatory increases in GluN2B to disturb neuronal synaptic plasticity, without neuronal inflammation. The altered synaptic plasticity subsequently led to anxiety-like behavior in mice. Treatment with the NMDA receptor antagonist dextromethorphan attenuated chronic IH-induced anxiety-like behavior and GluN2B expression. Our findings provide mechanistic evidence of how IH may provoke anxiety and support for the importance of early intervention to alleviate anxiety-associated complications in patients with chronic sleep apnea.

Psychological Well-Being in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Associated With Obesity: The Relationship With Personality, Cognitive Functioning, and Subjective and Objective Sleep Quality

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome severely affects psychological well-being. This syndrome frequently occurs in obesity; however, no previous study has investigated the level of psychological well-being in the case of OSA syndrome associated with obesity. In this work, we assessed the level of psychological well-being in fifty-two individuals affected by OSA syndrome and obesity through the Psychological General Well-Being Index. Moreover, we investigated the role of personality, cognitive functioning and attentional capabilities, subjective perception and objective measurement about sleeping, on the subjective perception of psychological well-being. Our sample reported a lower level of psychological well-being; the participants' scores were below the normative cut-off in all components, except for depression symptoms. A lower expression of harm avoidance temperament and a lower level of daily sleepiness predicted a higher level of psychological well-being. Psychological well-being seemed to be severely affected in individuals affected by OSA syndrome and obesity. The temperament and subjective perception of daily alertness and sleepiness, rather than the syndrome severity, seemed to play a crucial role in the individual perception of the psychological well-being.

Mood, sleepiness, and weight gain after three years on CPAP therapy for sleep apnoea

Background: The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) keeps on rising. Daytime sleepiness resulting from fragmented sleep is the prime symptom, and obesity the major risk factor for OSAS. Quality of life with OSAS is often affected by depressive symptoms and anxiety. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy reduces daytime sleepiness, but the results on the effect on mood, physical activity, and weight are controversial especially on long-term therapy. Purpose of this study was to evaluate these factors and predictors of weight gain during long-term CPAP therapy.

Methods: Consecutive patients (n = 223), referred to sleep study with suspected OSAS, were enrolled. Patients underwent a cardiorespiratory polygraphy at baseline and a battery of questionnaires was completed, both at baseline, and after three years of follow-up. Total of 149 (67%; M 65, F 84) patients completed the follow-up. Of the 149 patients, 76 (51.0%; M 32, F 44) used CPAP.

Results: In this study, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and sleepiness were alleviated during CPAP therapy. However, therapy did not have an influence on cravings of different food categories, or exercise habits and exercise duration. From the various factors studied, solely higher adherence to CPAP therapy was associated with weight gain.

Conclusions: This research provides further evidence that long-term CPAP therapy in patients with OSAS not only decreases sleepiness and improves sleep quality but could also alleviate depressive symptoms and anxiety. In addition, our study reinforces that CPAP therapy alone is not sufficient for weight management in patients with OSAS. Regardless of comprehensive battery of questionnaires, we were unable to establish markers predicting weight gain during therapy. We advise on life-style counselling and weight management program to all patients with obesity on CPAP therapy.

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome as a potential cause of sexual dysfunction in women : Sexual dysfunction in women

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is defined as the cessation of respiration due to recurrent and partial or complete blockade of the upper airways during sleep. Nocturnal hypoxemia due to OSA may accompany these conditions, with significant negative impact on the life quality of patients leading to mental and/or sexual dysfunction. OSA as a cause of sexual dysfunction in women has been subject to very little research. The goal of this study was to examine the effect of OSA on sexual functions in women suffering from this disorder.

METHODS

Patients with OSA were categorized into two groups, those with and those without sexual dysfunction.

RESULTS

When women with OSA and healthy women were compared, age (p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) (p < 0.001), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) (p = 0.001), there was a significant difference in the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX), (p = 0.02). When women with OSA were compared in terms of sexual dysfunction, a significant difference was found in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) (p = 0.01) and ASEX (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in hormonal parameters between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Sexual dysfunction in females is a largely under-recognized but important condition. Symptoms caused by OSA may include sexual dysfunction which may increase the prevalence of depression and anxiety, further reducing the quality of life.

Sleep Duration and Snoring at Midlife in Relation to Healthy Aging in Women 70 Years of Age or Older

PURPOSE

Both short and long sleep durations are associated with higher mortality. This study examined the association between sleep duration and overall health among those who survive to older ages.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

In the Nurses' Health Study, participants without major chronic diseases in 1986 and survived to age 70 years or older in 1995-2001 were included. Habitual sleep duration and snoring were self-reported in 1986. Healthy aging was defined as being free of 11 major chronic diseases and having no cognitive impairment, physical impairment, or mental health limitations. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for healthy aging.

RESULTS

Of the 12,304 participants, 1354 (11.0%) achieved healthy aging. We observed a non-linear association between sleep duration and the odds of achieving healthy aging. Compared with women sleeping 7 hours per day, women with longer sleep duration were less likely to achieve healthy aging; there was also a suggestion of lower odds of healthy aging for shorter sleepers, although the associations did not reach statistical significance: the multivariate-adjusted ORs (95% CIs) of healthy aging for those sleeping ≤5, 6, 8, and ≥9 hours were 0.94 (0.70, 1.27), 0.88 (0.76, 1.02), 0.83 (0.72, 0.96), and 0.60 (0.43, 0.84), respectively. Similar non-linear associations were consistently observed for individual dimensions of healthy aging. Regular snoring was associated with 31% lower odds of healthy aging (95% CI: 0.54, 0.88), which was primarily due to lower odds of having no major chronic diseases.

CONCLUSION

Both short and long sleep durations as well as regular snoring at midlife were associated with lower odds of healthy aging in later life.

The Complex Interaction Between the Major Sleep Symptoms, the Severity of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Sleep Quality

Introduction: Little information exists in the general population whether clinical presentation phenotypes of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) differ in terms of sleep quality and comorbidities. Aim: The purpose of our study was to assess possible differences between symptomatic and asymptomatic OSA patients concerning syndrome's severity, patients' sleep quality, and comorbidities. Subjects and methods: First, in a nationwide, stratified, epidemiological survey, 4,118 Cypriot adult participants were interviewed about sleep habits and complaints. In the second stage of the survey, 264 randomly selected adults underwent a type III sleep study for possible OSA. Additionally, they completed the Greek version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (Gr-PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: From 264 enrolled participants, 155 individuals (40 females and 115 males) were first diagnosed with OSA. Among these 155 patients, 34% had ESS ≥ 10 and 49% AIS ≥ 6. One or both symptoms present categorized the individual as symptomatic (60%) and neither major symptom as asymptomatic (40%). There were no significant statistical differences (SSDs) between the two groups (symptomatic-asymptomatic) with regard to anthropometrics [age or gender; neck, abdomen, and hip circumferences; and body mass index (BMI)]. The two groups had no differences in OSA severity-as expressed by apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and mean oxyhemoglobin saturation (SaO₂)-and in cardiometabolic comorbidities. Symptomatic patients expressed anxiety and depression more often than asymptomatics (p < 0.001) and had poorer subjective sleep quality (Gr-PSQI, p < 0.001). According to PSQI questionnaire, there were no SSDs regarding hours in bed and the use of sleep medications, but there were significant differences in the subjective perception of sleep quality (p < 0.001), sleep efficiency (p < 0.001), duration of sleep (p = 0.001), sleep latency (p = 0.007), daytime dysfunction (p < 0.001), and finally sleep disturbances (p < 0.001). Conclusion: According to our data, OSA patients reporting insomnia-like symptoms and/or sleepiness do not represent a more severe phenotype, by the classic definition of OSA, but their subjective sleep quality is compromised, causing a vicious cycle of anxiety or depression.

Personalized and Patient-Centered Strategies to Improve Positive Airway Pressure Adherence in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, is effectively treated with positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. The magnitude of improvements in daily functioning and reduced negative health risks are dependent on maintaining PAP adherence, which is a significant challenge. Evidence-based interventions to improve PAP use are not easily translated to clinical practice because they are labor-intensive and require specialty expertise. Further, to date, individualized care, inclusive of personalized medicine and patient- and person-centered care have been marginally incorporated in the field's understanding of OSA and PAP adherence. This integrative review describes current PAP adherence assessment processes, interventions to improve adherence, and outlines future opportunities to advance the field, particularly as it relates to individualizing care and the use of implementation science to apply evidence to practice.

Case Report: Parasomnia Overlap Disorder Induced by Obstructive Sleep Hypopnea Apnea Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review

Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and parasomnia overlap disorder (POD) are types of sleep disorders. When the symptoms of both conditions coexist, the POD symptoms are most likely caused by OSAHS. In these cases, the symptoms of POD will be relieved when OSAHS is effectively treated. We refer to these cases as symptomatic POD (related to OSAHS), which differs in pathophysiology, complications, and treatment from idiopathic POD. It is important to note that the treatment for idiopathic POD may aggravate the symptoms of OSAHS. In this case, we used video polysomnography (v-PSG) on a POD patient with suspected OSAHS to distinguish idiopathic POD from symptomatic POD, to inform the appropriate treatment course. The video results and clinical features lead us to diagnose symptomatic POD, and we treated the patient with auto-set continuous positive airway pressure to address their OSAHS. This course of treatment resolved all POD-related symptoms. Here, we discuss this case and review the relevant literature. This report highlights the importance of the use of v-PSG in the clinical diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and subsequent treatment of POD.

The gut microbiome as a target for adjuvant therapy in obstructive sleep apnea

Introduction: Gut dysbiosis is assumed to play a role in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)-associated morbidities. Pre- and probiotics, short chain fatty acids (SCFA) and fecal matter transplantation (FMT) may offer potential as novel therapeutic strategies that target this gut dysbiosis. As more mechanisms of OSA-induced dysbiosis are being elucidated, these novel approaches are being tested in preclinical and clinical development. Areas covered: We examined the evidence linking OSA to gut dysbiosis and discuss the effects of pre- and probiotics on associated cardiometabolic, neurobehavioral and gastrointestinal disorders. The therapeutic potential of SCFA and FMT are also discussed. We reviewed the National Center for Biotechnology Information database, including PubMed and PubMed Central between 2000 - 2020. Expert opinion: To date, there are no clinical trials and only limited evidence from animal studies describing the beneficial effects of pre- and probiotic supplementation on OSA-mediated dysbiosis. Thus, more work is necessary to assess whether prebiotics, probiotics and SCFA are promising future novel strategies for targeting OSA-mediated dysbiosis.

Troubles psychotiques et troubles du sommeil : revue de la littérature

Contexte La disparition de la nomenclature des troubles du sommeil dits primaires ou secondaires, rendue obsolète par le Manuel diagnostique et statistique des troubles mentaux (DSM-5), représente bien l’engouement académique actuel pour ce domaine de recherche. Il est de plus en plus reconnu que les troubles du sommeil sont plus que de simples conséquences d’un trouble psychiatrique et qu’ils peuvent persister malgré un traitement adéquat de la condition comorbide et même précéder ou exacerber cette dernière. Les troubles du sommeil dans les troubles psychotiques, très fréquents, sont donc devenus un sujet d’actualité, représentant une cible d’intervention jusqu’ici sous-estimée.

Objectif Cet article vise à présenter l’état des connaissances actuelles sur la relation entre les troubles du sommeil et les troubles psychotiques ainsi que sur l’utilisation de la thérapie cognitivo-comportementale (TCC) pour traiter les troubles du sommeil dans ce contexte.

Méthode L’article fait une recension narrative de la littérature pour décrire la relation bidirectionnelle entre la psychose et les troubles du sommeil, les corrélations cliniques et les traitements ciblant l’insomnie chez les patients psychotiques.

Résultats Malgré la présence d’une relation entre les troubles du sommeil et les troubles psychotiques, les mécanismes neuronaux, hormonaux et socioculturels régissant cette relation demeurent encore incertains. Bien que l’association reliant les troubles du sommeil et les troubles psychotiques demeure à clarifier, les études démontrent qu’elle serait bidirectionnelle et peut engendrer un cercle vicieux où ces deux composantes s’aggravent mutuellement. Dans ce contexte de comorbidités, les modèles unifiés en TCC deviennent un traitement de choix, à condition d’adapter les protocoles de TCC pour insomnie (TCC-i) à une population avec trouble psychotique (TCC-ip).

Conclusion Malgré la complexité de la relation entre les troubles psychotiques et ceux du sommeil, la TCC-i a été démontrée efficace pour traiter les troubles du sommeil dans une population psychotique et pourrait, dans certains cas, permettre d’alléger la symptomatologie psychotique. De futures études sur ce domaine pourraient permettre le développement de protocoles de thérapie cognitivo-comportementale pour les troubles du sommeil mieux adaptés à la population avec troubles psychotiques.

Association between obstructive sleep apnea and multiple involuntary job loss history among recently unemployed adults

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been associated with negative occupational outcomes including absenteeism and poor work productivity. This analysis explored whether the severity of OSA was associated with multiple involuntary job loss history among recently unemployed adults.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional analysis of data from the screening visit of the Assessing Daily Activity Patterns Through Occupational Transitions study. Information was collected from 261 participants who recently involuntarily lost their jobs. Data included demographics, employment, medical history, and results from a limited channel home sleep apnea test. The respiratory event index was categorized as <5 events per hour (no-OSA), 5 to <15 (mild OSA), and ≥15 (moderate to severe OSA). Logistic regression and propensity score matching were used to identify factors associated with multiple involuntary job loss.

RESULTS

A total of 44.8% of participants reported multiple involuntary job loss. Those with mild OSA had 1.85 (95%CI: 1.04, 3.28) increased odds of reporting multiple involuntary job loss as compared to participants with no OSA in the unadjusted model; while participants with moderate-to-severe OSA had 2.71 (95%CI: 1.33, 5.70) increased odds. After adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, beginning work between 7 and 9 AM, job type, and, compensation type, the odds of involuntary job loss among participants with moderate-severe OSA were 2.46 (95%CI: 1.13, 5.52) as compared to having no OSA.

CONCLUSIONS

In a sample of recently unemployed adults, having OSA significantly increased the odds of reporting previous involuntary job losses. This study suggests OSA could be a risk factor for job loss.

Neuroendocrine abnormalities associated with untreated first episode patients of major depressive disorder with comorbid obstructive sleep apnea

There are few studies that explore the relationship of neuroendocrine hormones of the HPA, HPT and HPG axes with major depressive disorder (MDD) with comorbid obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The aim of this study is to examine neuroendocrine abnormalities and the relationship in untreated first episode patients of MDD comorbided with OSA. Polysomnography, neuroendocrine hormones were determined for 111 patients. After excluding the influences of age and BMI, phase I in non-REM sleep (N1)% increased significantly in MDD with OSA when compared with non-OSA. In the OSA group, cortisol increased and exceeded the normal standard, and for the numbers of patients exceeding the normal range, there were significant difference between two groups. In MDD with OSA, adrenocorticotropic hormone was significantly negatively correlated with slow wave sleep (SWS)%, while thyroxine was significantly correlated with phase II in non-REM sleep (N2)%, and prolactin was significantly negatively correlated with N1%. This study revealed that for untreated first episode MDD patients with OSA, the HPA axis was hyperfunctional. Cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone may be increased along with disturbed sleep structure and less slow-wave sleep time. Concurrently prolactin was decreased and thyroxine increased during the N1 and N2 phase of sleep.

BMI-NECK: A simple assessment of risk of obstructive sleep apnea in schizophrenia

INTRODUCTION

A high risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been reported in patients with schizophrenia. However, existing screening questionnaires for OSA haven't been validated in this population and the impact of OSA on schizophrenia symptoms has rarely been studied. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and impact of OSA in patients with schizophrenia and validate the existing OSA screening scales.

METHOD

Patients with schizophrenia consecutively admitted to hospital (n = 51) and patients with schizophrenia and obesity (n = 31) were compared to healthy controls (n = 51). Apnea risk was measured with STOP-BANG, NoSAS, No-Apnea, and the Berlin Questionnaire; psychiatric symptoms were measured with the PANSS and Calgary scales and B-CATS battery. Daytime sleepiness was measured with the Epworth sleepiness scale. OSA was diagnosed using the Embletta system.

RESULTS

OSA was found more frequently in obese schizophrenia patients than in those consecutively admitted to hospital (45% vs. 22%, p < 0.05). Significant differences between patients with and without OSA were found on the PANSS negative symptoms subscale, B-CATS digit symbol test, and in daytime sleepiness. None of the used screening scales showed satisfactory sensitivity and specificity. Obesity with coexisting neck circumference ≥41 cm in women or ≥43 cm in men (BMI-NECK model) predicted OSA in 57% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

OSA should be screened in patients with schizophrenia as it has a negative influence on psychiatric symptoms and may contribute to the higher mortality of these patients. Assessment of BMI and neck circumference proves a good screening test in ambulatory contexts.

Medication of comorbidities in females with sleep-disordered breathing during long-term CPAP therapy

BACKGROUND

Treating sleep disordered breathing (SDB) with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) may reduce mortality, but the studies on the effect on medication use are few. Women tend to have more mild sleep apnoea and partial airway obstruction and are therefore expected to have less co-morbidity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of CPAP therapy on medication use in women as overall medication, and in different subcategories of diseases, and to evaluate the impact of nocturnal airway obstruction type as partial or complete.

METHODS

From the database of the Department of Pulmonary Diseases in Turku University Hospital from 1994 to 1998, 601 consecutive females with SDB were enrolled, and the type of SDB was evaluated. All were offered CPAP therapy. The medication use measured as defined daily doses (DDD) in overall medication and in nine subcategories were collected three years before and three years after CPAP initiation.

RESULTS

In final analyses, 182 women were included. In CPAP users (n = 66), comorbidities were more frequent and DDDs higher overall, in asthma, in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and in severe mental disorders, both before and after CPAP initiation. The medication use was similar regardless of the type of SDB. The change in medication use was similar as in controls.

CONCLUSIONS

CPAP therapy did not decrease medication use in three-year follow-up. However, possibly continuous rise in medication use was prevented, as the change in medication use was similar in controls. Complete and partial obstruction had similar effects.

Sleep problems in active duty military personnel seeking treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder: presence, change, and impact on outcomes

Study Objectives

To examine sleep disorder symptom reports at baseline and posttreatment in a sample of active duty U.S. Army Soldiers receiving treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Explore sleep-related predictors of outcomes.

Methods

Sleep was evaluated in 128 participants in a parent randomized clinical trial comparing Spaced formats of Prolonged Exposure (PE) or Present Centered Therapy and a Massed format of PE. In the current study, Spaced formats were combined and evaluated separately from Massed.

Results

At baseline, the average sleep duration was &lt; 5 h per night on weekdays/workdays and &lt; 6 h per night on weekends/off days. The majority of participants reported clinically significant insomnia, clinically significant nightmares, and probable sleep apnea and approximately half reported excessive daytime sleepiness at baseline. Insomnia and nightmares improved significantly from baseline to posttreatment in all groups, but many patients reported clinically significant insomnia (&gt;70%) and nightmares (&gt;38%) posttreatment. Excessive daytime sleepiness significantly improved only in the Massed group, but 40% continued to report clinically significant levels at posttreatment. Short sleep (Spaced only), clinically significant insomnia and nightmares, excessive daytime sleepiness, and probable sleep apnea (Massed only) at baseline predicted higher PTSD symptoms across treatment course. Short weekends/off days sleep predicted lower PTSD symptom improvement in the Spaced treatments.

Conclusions

Various sleep disorder symptoms were high at baseline, were largely unchanged with PTSD treatment, and were related to worse PTSD treatment outcomes. Studies are needed with objective sleep assessments and targeted sleep disorders treatments in PTSD patients.

Clinical Trial Registration

NCT01049516.

Effect of ventilation therapy on mortality rate among obesity hypoventilation syndrome and obstructive sleep apnoea patients

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of obesity is continually increasing worldwide, which increases the incidence of obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) and its consequent mortality.

METHODS

We reviewed the therapy mode, comorbidity and mortality of all OHS patients treated at our hospital between 2005 and 2016. The control group consisted of randomly selected patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) treated during the same period.

RESULTS

We studied 206 OHS patients and 236 OSA patients. The OHS patients were older (56.3 versus 52.3 years, p<0.001) and heavier (body mass index 46.1 versus 32.2 kg·m-2, p<0.001), and the percentage of women was higher (41.2% versus 24.2%, p<0.001), respectively. The OHS patients had more hypertension (83% versus 61%, p<0.001) and diabetes (62% versus 31%, p<0.001) than the OSA patients, but no higher stroke (4% versus 8%, p=0.058) or ischaemic heart disease (14% versus 15%, p=0.437) incidence. The 5- and 10-year, unadjusted survival rates were lower among the OHS patients than among the OSA patients (83% versus 96% and 74% versus 91%, respectively; p<0.001). Differences in mortality rates were not related to age, sex or body mass index; covariates such as Charlson Comorbidity Index and ventilation therapy predicted survival. The mortality rate decreased significantly (p<0.001) both in OHS and OSA patients even after adjusting for covariates.

CONCLUSIONS

The mortality rate in OHS was significantly higher than that in OSA patients even after adjusting for covariates. Ventilation therapy by continuous positive airway pressure or noninvasive ventilation have reduced mortality significantly in all patients.

Screening for obstructive sleep apnoea in an early psychosis cohort: a pilot study

OBJECTIVE

Rates of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) appear to be lower in the youth population (< 4%) compared to the general population (6%-17%); rates in people with psychotic illness are estimated at 13.5%-57.1%. We hypothesised that this comorbidity extends to early psychosis (EP) populations, and used previously validated OSA questionnaires to screen for OSA in an EP cohort.

METHOD

Fifty-three patients were screened using the OSA50 and STOP-Bang questionnaires with collection of anthropometric measures. Patients who screened positively were referred for polysomnography.

RESULTS

Fifteen per cent (8/53) screened positively; most frequently endorsed measures included BMI > 25, snoring, hypertension, neck circumference (> 40 cm) and male gender. Only 2/8 patients accepted polysomnography.

CONCLUSIONS

Screening indicates OSA may be more prevalent in EP populations than age-equivalent cohorts, but ongoing research is required.

Non-contact diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea using impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar

While full-night polysomnography is the gold standard for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, its limitations include a high cost and first-night effects. This study developed an algorithm for the detection of respiratory events based on impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar and verified its feasibility for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. A total of 94 subjects were enrolled in this study (23 controls and 24, 14, and 33 with mild, moderate, and severe obstructive sleep apnea, respectively). Abnormal breathing detected by impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar was defined as a drop in the peak radar signal by ≥30% from that in the pre-event baseline. We compared the abnormal breathing index obtained from impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar and apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) measured from polysomnography. There was an excellent agreement between the Abnormal Breathing Index and AHI (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.927). The overall agreements of the impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar were 0.93 for Model 1 (AHI ≥ 5), 0.91 for Model 2 (AHI ≥ 15), and 1 for Model 3 (AHI ≥ 30). Impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar accurately detected respiratory events (apneas and hypopneas) during sleep without subject contact. Therefore, impulse-radio ultra-wideband radar may be used as a screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea.

Sleep Disturbances and Suicidality in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: An Overview of the Literature

A causal relationship between sleep disturbances and suicidal behavior has been previously reported. Insomnia and nightmares are considered as hallmarks of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition, patients with PTSD have an increased risk for suicidality. The present article gives an overview about the existing literature on the relationship between sleep disturbances and suicidality in the context of PTSD. It aims to demonstrate that diagnosing and treating sleep problems as still underestimated target symptoms may provide preventive strategies with respect to suicidality. However, heterogeneous study designs, different samples and diverse outcome parameters hinder a direct comparison of studies and a causal relationship cannot be shown. More research is necessary to clarify this complex relationship and to tackle the value of treatment of sleep disturbances for suicide prevention in PTSD.