[Mechanisms of cardiovascular co-morbidity in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome]

Abstract

The repetitive intermittent hypoxic episodes, central nervous arousal and intrathoracic pressure fluctuations that occur together with obstructive sleep apnoea are the primary pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the cardiovascular co-morbidity. These phenomena lead to increased oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, disrupted vasomotor function, increased sympathetic activity and the development of arteriosclerosis in blood vessels. CPAP therapy lowers arterial blood pressure and has a positive effect on relevant specific aspects of cardiovascular co-morbidity. Until the results of current randomised studies have been published, it has to be decided on an individual basis whether the cardiovascular situation alone justifies CPAP therapy. This will usually be the case in severe OSA with daytime sleepiness, in young patients and patients with good compliance. Interventions that reduce cardiovascular risk and also have a positive effect on OSA, i. e., weight reduction, physical exercise and smoking cessation are always appropriate.