Common sleeping disorder linked to higher chance of memory loss

Sleep apnoea is when people stop and restart breathing repeatedly during sleep which can lower oxygen levels in the blood.

A new research study has revealed one of the most common sleep disorder can increase the risk of memory problems by 50%.

The study, which involved 4,257 participants, found those who experience sleep apnoea may be more likely to also have memory or thinking problems.

Sleep apnoea is when people stop and restart breathing repeatedly during sleep which can lower oxygen levels in the blood.

Symptoms include snorting, gasping and breathing pauses, and many with the disorder may also experience morning headaches or have trouble focusing.

The study made participants complete a questionnaire asking about sleep quality as well as memory and thinking problems.

For sleep, participants were asked about snorting, gasping or breathing pauses in their sleep.

For memory and thinking, participants were asked questions related to difficulty remembering, periods of confusion, difficulty concentrating or problems with decision making.

Of all participants, 1,079 reported symptoms of sleep apnoea, and of those with symptoms 33% reported memory or thinking problems compared to 20% of people without sleep apnoea symptoms.

After adjusting for other factors that could affect memory and thinking problems, such as age, race, gender and education, the researchers found that people who reported sleep apnoea symptoms were about 50% more likely to also report having memory or thinking problems compared to people who did not.

The researchers hope that their findings will encourage medical professionals to prioritise early diagnosis.

Dr Dominique Low, of the American Academy of Neurology said: ‘Sleep apnoea is a common disorder that is often underdiagnosed, yet treatments are available.

‘Our study found participants who had sleep apnoea symptoms had greater odds of having memory or thinking problems. These findings highlight the importance of early screening for sleep apnoea.

‘Effective treatments like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are readily available.

‘Quality sleep, along with eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, social engagement and cognitive stimulation, may ultimately reduce a person’s risk of thinking and memory problems, improving their quality of life.’

The findings are due to be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting in Denver.

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