Fact 9: Sleep Apnea: An Unexpected Link in the Hypertension-Dementia Network
It may seem out of place to bring sleep apnea into a discussion on hypertension and dementia, but research suggests that this sleep disorder might be an important piece of the puzzle. Sleep apnea, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, is known to be associated with high blood pressure.
Studies show that sleep apnea can cause a series of physiological changes, including intermittent hypoxia (low levels of oxygen in the blood), changes in intrathoracic pressure, and disruption of the sleep architecture. These changes can contribute to the development and persistence of hypertension.
But how does this relate to dementia? Intriguingly, research indicates that people with sleep apnea have an increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. It’s hypothesized that the low oxygen levels and disrupted sleep patterns caused by sleep apnea can lead to damage in brain regions important for memory and cognition.
The link between sleep apnea, hypertension, and dementia presents an opportunity for early intervention. By diagnosing and treating sleep apnea, it might be possible to manage blood pressure more effectively and mitigate the risk of dementia. (9)
