Sleep apnea and balance control in adult patients

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a widely spread condition in the adult population. Sleep apnea is often left undiagnosed. However, implications on the body may be life-threatening. Human vestibular system is responsible for the fine motor and balance control when engaging in everyday static and dynamic situations. Apart from the diseases of the vestibular system, OSA is believed to cause vestibular and auditory dysfunctions. CPAP treatment of sleep apnea is known to alleviate pathologic systems from audio-vestibular origin. Poor quality of sleep is studied to exacerbate balance disorders.

Material and Methods The aim of the following study is to discuss the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and the ability of patients, suffering from the condition, to maintain balance. Scientific databases – MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, PubMed were used for the literature research part. Forty patients were included in the study. All filled out questionnaires and informed consents, as well as underwent a full ENT- and dental check-up, including HSAT, VNG, SVV, vHIT and other examinations.

Results Mild, moderate and severe cases of obstructive sleep apnea were more prevalent among the male participants. More female patients had vestibular disorders. Balance problems were diagnosed, irrespective of the gender. Connection between the severity of the OSA and the balance disorder was reconfirmed.

Conclusion Obstructive sleep apnea and balance disorders are increasingly prevalent in the recent years. Therefore, patients should be offered a comprehensive and multidisciplinary treatment. The “pandemic” of sleep and vestibular disorders should be managed so as to preserve the quality of life of the affected patients.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
24. Mai 2022