A Practical Approach to the Identification and Management of Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Heart Failure Patients

Abstract

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a major health problem affecting much of the general population. Although SDB is responsible for rapid progression of heart failure (HF) and the worsening morbidity and mortality, advanced HF state is associated with accelerated development of SDB. In the face of recent developments in SDB treatment and availability of effective therapeutic options known to improve quality of life, exercise tolerance, and heart function, most HF patients with SDB are left unrecognized and untreated. This article provides an overview of SDB in HF with focus on practical approaches intended to facilitate screening and treatment.

Keywords: Central; Chronic; Heart failure; Obstructive; Positive airway pressure; Respiration; Sleep apnea; Systolic.