Brain Health in Sleep Disorders

Sleep Med Clin. 2025 Mar;20(1):57-72. doi: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2024.10.004. Epub 2024 Nov 16.

Abstract

Sleep is a critical determinant of brain health, influencing cognitive, emotional, and physiologic functions. The complex bidirectional relationship between sleep and brain health underscores the importance of sleep in maintaining cognitive function, regulating brain homeostasis, and facilitating the clearance of metabolic waste through the glymphatic system. Chronic sleep deprivation and sleep disorders such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea have been shown to negatively impact brain structures and functions. This review discusses the impact of sleep disorders on brain health. It also explores the implications of impaired sleep on cardiovascular health, immune function, and neuroplasticity.

Keywords: Brain health; Cognitive decline; Glymphatic system; Neurodegenerative disease; Sleep deprivation; Sleep disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain* / physiology
  • Brain* / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / physiopathology