 |
|
Sleep Apnea May Be Risk Factor for Sudden Cardiac Death, Mayo Clinic Research Concludes
November 10, 2008NEW ORLEANS - After studying the sleep characteristics of nearly 11,000 adults in an overnight sleep laboratory, Mayo Clinic researchers suggest that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) - and, in particular, the low nighttime oxygen saturation of the blood it causes - may be a risk factor for sudden cardiac death (SCD).
OSA is a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep and is associated with obesity.
The study identified OSA as one of two traits that contribute to the highest risk of SCD. The other is age - patients who are 60 years old or older.
SCD can happen when the heart's electrical system malfunctions; if treatment - cardiopulmonary resuscitation and defibrillation - is not administered quickly, a person dies.
If further studies validate these findings, OSA would join established risk factors such as smoking, obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Mayo Clinic cardiologist Apoor Gami, M.D., the lead researcher on the study, presents the findings today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2008 in New Orleans.
Significance
Physicians have suspected for years that OSA might be implicated in SCD because of evidence that low oxygen alters the blood vessels in a way that promotes heart disease. This is the first large study to rigorously test the hypothesis, Dr. Gami says.
"Nighttime low oxygen saturation in the blood is an important complication of obstructive sleep apnea," says Virend Somers, M.D., Ph.D., the study's principal investigator. "Our data showed that an average nighttime oxygen saturation of the blood of 93 percent and lowest nighttime saturation of 78 percent strongly predicted SCD, independent of other well-established risk factors, such as high cholesterol. These findings implicate OSA, a relatively common condition, as a novel risk factor for SCD."
Dr. Somers says these early results are relevant to clinical care. He urges physicians to watch for OSA in their heart patients and consider treating severe cases. "It is possible that diagnosing and treating sleep apnea may prove to be an important opportunity to advance our efforts at preventing and treating heart disease," he says.
Obstructive sleep apnea and public health
OSA is a common breathing disorder associated with frequent and repeated instances of upper airway obstruction during sleep. Restless sleep and extremely loud snoring are typical symptoms. Obstruction can be caused by excess tissue in the airway, a large tongue or large tonsils, or nasal passage irregularities that diminish airflow. Obesity is a major cause of the condition. Treatments are available, such as a customized appliance worn during sleep to stabilize tissues.
Given the rising incidence of obesity in children and adults, OSA is also becoming more common, Dr. Somers says. So concerned are major heart physicians' groups about this emerging public health trend that last summer the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology issued a joint statement calling for studies probing the link between OSA and SCD, says Dr. Somers. He chaired the committee that wrote the statement.
About the study
The researchers reviewed data from 10,701 consecutive adults who underwent an initial diagnostic sleep laboratory analysis session between 1987 and 2003. During a follow-up period of up to 15 years, researchers assessed cases where patients had sudden cardiac arrest, and either died (SCD) or were resuscitated, in relationship to the presence of OSA and other data, including nighttime levels of oxygen saturation in the blood. Results showed that during an average follow-up of 5.3 years, 142 patients had suffered SCD and either died or were resuscitated.
Collaboration and support
Other researchers from Mayo were Eric Olson, M.D.; Win Shen, M.D.; R. Scott Wright, M.D.; Karla Ballman, Ph.D.; Daniel Howard; Dave Hodge and Regina Herges. The study was funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health and Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
Mayo Clinic
SCD can happen when the heart's electrical system malfunctions; if treatment - cardiopulmonary resuscitation and defibrillation - is not administered quickly, a person dies.
If further studies validate these findings, OSA would join established risk factors such as smoking, obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Mayo Clinic cardiologist Apoor Gami, M.D., the lead researcher on the study, presents the findings today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2008 in New Orleans.
Significance
Physicians have suspected for years that OSA might be implicated in SCD because of evidence that low oxygen alters the blood vessels in a way that promotes heart disease. This is the first large study to rigorously test the hypothesis, Dr. Gami says.
"Nighttime low oxygen saturation in the blood is an important complication of obstructive sleep apnea," says Virend Somers, M.D., Ph.D., the study's principal investigator. "Our data showed that an average nighttime oxygen saturation of the blood of 93 percent and lowest nighttime saturation of 78 percent strongly predicted SCD, independent of other well-established risk factors, such as high cholesterol. These findings implicate OSA, a relatively common condition, as a novel risk factor for SCD."
Dr. Somers says these early results are relevant to clinical care. He urges physicians to watch for OSA in their heart patients and consider treating severe cases. "It is possible that diagnosing and treating sleep apnea may prove to be an important opportunity to advance our efforts at preventing and treating heart disease," he says.
Obstructive sleep apnea and public health
OSA is a common breathing disorder associated with frequent and repeated instances of upper airway obstruction during sleep. Restless sleep and extremely loud snoring are typical symptoms. Obstruction can be caused by excess tissue in the airway, a large tongue or large tonsils, or nasal passage irregularities that diminish airflow. Obesity is a major cause of the condition. Treatments are available, such as a customized appliance worn during sleep to stabilize tissues.
Given the rising incidence of obesity in children and adults, OSA is also becoming more common, Dr. Somers says. So concerned are major heart physicians' groups about this emerging public health trend that last summer the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology issued a joint statement calling for studies probing the link between OSA and SCD, says Dr. Somers. He chaired the committee that wrote the statement.
About the study
The researchers reviewed data from 10,701 consecutive adults who underwent an initial diagnostic sleep laboratory analysis session between 1987 and 2003. During a follow-up period of up to 15 years, researchers assessed cases where patients had sudden cardiac arrest, and either died (SCD) or were resuscitated, in relationship to the presence of OSA and other data, including nighttime levels of oxygen saturation in the blood. Results showed that during an average follow-up of 5.3 years, 142 patients had suffered SCD and either died or were resuscitated.
Collaboration and support
Other researchers from Mayo were Eric Olson, M.D.; Win Shen, M.D.; R. Scott Wright, M.D.; Karla Ballman, Ph.D.; Daniel Howard; Dave Hodge and Regina Herges. The study was funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health and Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
Mayo Clinic
Sleep Apnea Current Events and Sleep Apnea News RSSFighting Sleep, Penn Researchers Reverse the Cognitive Impairment Caused By Sleep Deprivation
A research collaboration led by biologists and neuroscientists at the University of Pennsylvania has found a molecular pathway in the brain that is the cause of cognitive impairment due to sleep deprivation.
Improved diet and exercise alone unlikely to cure obstructive sleep apnea in obese patients
A study in the Oct. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that while a strict diet and exercise program may benefit obese patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it is unlikely to eliminate the condition.
Surgery is an option for some patients hoping to get a good night's rest
According to research recently published by an Oregon Health & Science University scientist, a form of surgery called uvopalatopharyngoplasty is effective for treating certain patients who suffer from sleep apnea, one of the most common sleep disorders.
Being overweight super-sizes both risk and consequences of sleep-disordered breathing
Overweight individuals are not just at greater risk of having sleep-disordered-breathing (SDB), they are also likely to suffer greater consequences, according to new research.
Minimally invasive procedure effective for treating snoring
Radiofrequency ablation, a procedure that uses heat to shrink the tissue of the soft palate, is an effective and minimally invasive procedure that can be used to treat patients who snore.
Many patients with sleep apnea also suffer from GI tract conditions
Patients who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) also tend to have additional gastrointestinal (GI) tract conditions, such as gastric reflux and hiatal hernia, which form at the opening in your diaphragm where your food pipe (esophagus) joins your stomach.
Radiofrequency energy technique as effective as tonsillectomy surgery
Radiofrequncy-tonsillotomy, which enables surgeons to reduce the size of the tonsillar tissue instead of removing the tonsils entirely, seems to be an effective and safe method of treating children with symptoms of enlarged tonsils.
Stress, fatigue plague patients with allergic rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea
Patients who suffer from both allergic rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may experience escalated symptoms of stress and fatigue.
Severe sleep apnea tied to increased risk of death
Moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of death from any cause in middle-aged adults, especially men, according to new results from a landmark study supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Obstructive sleep apnea is prevalent in adults with Down syndrome
A study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that adults with Down syndrome also frequently suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
More Sleep Apnea Current Events and Sleep Apnea News Articles
 |
Snore-Ex's Anti Snoring Device - Apnea Cessation Stop Snoring Mouth Piece by Snore-Ex Snore-Ex's anti-snoring mouthpiece is an oral appliance also referred to as a Mandibular Advancement Device. The simple custom-fit mouthpiece positions and holds the jaw, opening airways for maximum airflow, thus reducing or eliminating snoring vibrations. More specifically, it provides a forward-positioning for the tongue, which is connected to the lower jaw. This increases airflow and minimizes the most common snoring cause - soft palette vibrations in the rear of the mouth. This is for adults only. |
 |
The SnoreWizard by SnoreWizard |
 |
Sleep Apnea-The Phantom of the Night: Overcome Sleep Apnea Syndrome and Win Your Hidden Struggle to Breathe, Sleep, and Live by T. Scott Johnson (Author), William A. Broughton (Contributor), Jerry Halberstadt (Contributor), William Dement (Contributor), Colin Sullivan (Contributor) Sleep apnea disrupts the lives of millions of unsuspecting victims. Their struggle to breathe during sleep is a major cause of daytime sleepiness, accidents, poor health, lost years of productivity and happiness, and even death. Experts in sleep medicine and a patient guide people with snoring and sleep apnea and their families to take advantage of dramatically effective medical treatment. Broughton, the medical director of the accredited University of Alabama Knollwood Sleep Disorders Center, updates current advances. Demko reviews oral appliance therapy. They explain sleep as well as sleep apnea, and show the person with apnea how to recognize it, obtain a diagnosis, treat it, and overcome social, physical, or emotional obstacles to recovery. Coverage of treatments... |
 |
RESPIRONICS PREMIUM CHIN STRAP by Respironics The Respironics Premium Chinstrap features: Vertical Design that promotes a vertical angle of force on the chin (as opposed to horizontal) in order to reduce the potential of inducing sleep-related events Integrated Chin Cup that is sewn into the strap to provide a soft and comfortable support without placing unnecessary tension around the chin Adjustable Support Strap that attaches to a split section of the chin strap and wraps around the back of the head for the ultimate in stability and adjustability |
 |
Bed Wedge - Foam Wedge Bed Pillow 12" x 24" 'x 24" Good for Acid Reflux, Snoring. Comes w/ white Pillow Cover by Duro-Med by Duro-Med The Foam Wedge Bed Pillow provides gentle support to elevate the upper body or legs, or to use as a trunk stabilizer for side-lying position. Designed for patients with acid reflux, problem breathing, poor circulation, hiatals hernia, back or neck problems. Can also be used for foot or leg elevation. This pillow provides a comfortable, gradual slope and uses gravity to keep reflux down and airways open. For hygienic reasons pillows/wedges are non-returnable. |
 |
Noronco Anti-Snore by Sierra Sleep Solutions Same technology and material used by dentist and other custom-fit mouthpieces found on Amazon. While sleeping the muscles and tissues in your throat and mouth automatically relax. The lower jaw and tongue fall back, which block and decrease in size the airway opening. That familiar snoring sound is actually the sound of those tissues vibrating. The NoroncoTM mouthpiece moves the lower jaw slightly forward and holds the mouth slightly open. Returning the airway to its normal diameter, this improves the airflow at the back of the throat and, in most cases, eliminates snoring. |
 |
Questions & Answers About Sleep Apnea (100 Questions & Answers about) by Sudhansu Chokroverty (Author) Sleep apnea affects more than twelve million Americans, according to the Institute of Health. Whether you're a newly diagnosed patient, or are a friend or relative of someone suffering from sleep apnea, this book offers help. The only text available to provide both the doctor's and patient's views, Questions and Answers About Sleep Apnea gives you authoritative, practical answers to your questions about treatment options and post-treatment quality of life, and provides sources of support. Written by a world famous authority on sleep and sleep disorders, this text is an invaluable resource for anyone coping with the physical and emotional turmoil of sleep apnea. |
 |
Snoreben - Say Goodbye to Snoring and Hello to a Quiet Comfortable Nights Sleep by Unlimited Product Sourcing, Inc. The Snoreben is an FDA approved Class 1 Medical Device developed to stop snoring and significantly improve your quality of sleep. It is specially designed to help anyone of any age, who suffers from Obstructive Sleep Apnea, alar collapse (collapsed nostrils), deviated septum (bent nose) and damaged or narrow nostrils and other nasal disorders. The Snoreben is made from medical grade Latex Free Silicone for maximum comfort while sleeping to ensure you receive the much needed quality sleep necessary to wake refreshed and revitalized. This will allow you to carry out daily activities with a clear mind and enjoy a full, healthy and happy lifestyle. |
 |
SP Medical Adjustable CPAP Chin Strap by SP Medical The SP Medical Adjustable CPAP Chin Strap This easy-to-use chin strap is the top choice because it is easy to use, has a secure fit and it's COMFORTABLE! No guessing on sizes because it is adjustable. Brand new, SP Medical Adjustable Chin Strap (velcro adjustments). There are adjustable straps at both the crown of the head and at the base of the neck. This chin strap is great for mouth breathers. The Adjustable chin strap is intended for use by adults to help prevent some of the nasal and oral drying that can occur during Continuous Positive Airway Pressure and bi-level therapy. The Adjustable chin strap helps to prevent air flow leaking from your mouth by holding your chin in a stable position which encourages breathing through your nose. Due to hygiene purposes this item is... |
 |
Profile Lite Nasal Mask Small by Respironics With its softer, lighter cushion, Respironics Profile Lite Nasal Gel Mask is extremely comfortable right out of the box. The unique gel cushion and forehead pad gently rest against the patient's face for a soft, pillowy fit. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |