Depression, Anxiety and Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Clinical Implications

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea OSA is a common disorder which is often not recognized in clinical practice. OSA by virtue of producing cyclical hypoxia and sympathetic stimulation can lead to several adverse consequences in various body systems viz cardiometabolic and neurological disorders hypertension ischemic heart disease Type 2 diabetes mellitus stroke dementia and others. Snoring which is often loud and habitual accompanied with daytime sleepiness tiredness are common manifestations. OSA often exhibit mood swings. Studies suggest a close association of OSA depression and anxiety. The management of OSA chiefly rests on the usage of continuous positive airway pressure CPAP while sleeping. The results have been rewarding. Its regular usage not only corrects the sleep disorder but also shows benefits in the consequences. Reports suggest that depression in OSA gradually resolves with CPAP usage. The association of OSA depression and anxiety needs to be explored further.nbsp