COVID-19 patients with sleep apnea may be at additional risk

A new study from the University of Warwick shows that people diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea may be at increased risk of adverse outcomes from COVID-19.

The conclusions are drawn from a systematic review of studies that reported outcomes in patients with COVID-19 diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Published in the journal Hypnotic ReviewThe review emphasizes the need to further investigate the effects of the virus on people in sleep and better identify those who are not currently diagnosed.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition characterized by complete or partial obstruction of the airways that weakens muscles during sleep. People who snore, hold their breath, or appear to suffocate during sleep, especially those who are obese, are generally diagnosed in those who are more likely to experience it. If you make strange noises during sleep or if you feel that you have stopped breathing during sleep, talk to your GP about requesting a sleep service to check your condition.

many Risk factor Complications associated with sleep apnea, such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, are similar to those associated with poor outcomes of COVID-19. However, the researchers wanted to investigate whether the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea poses additional risks in addition to these factors.

A systematic review reviewed 18 studies up to June 2020 on obstructive sleep apnea and COVID-19. Eight of these were primarily associated with the risk of death from COVID-19, and 10 were associated with the diagnosis, treatment and management of sleep apnea. .. Few studies of obstructive sleep apnea with COVID-19 were conducted at the time, but there is evidence to suggest that many patients who received intensive care had obstructive sleep apnea. .. Diabetics that is Increasing risk It has nothing to do with other risk factors. In one large study of diabetic patients admitted with COVID-19, patients treated for obstructive sleep apnea were 2.8 times more likely to die 7 days after admission.

Researchers believe that up to 85% of obstructive sleep apnea disorders have not been detected in the UK, and 1.5 million people in the UK currently diagnosed with this condition may be just the tip of the iceberg. It suggests that there is. With an increase in obesity and other related risk factors, the researchers also believe that the rate of obstructive sleep apnea is also increasing. The review also emphasizes that the pandemic has had a global impact on the ongoing diagnosis, management, and treatment of patients with this and other sleep states. In the future, it may be necessary to explore new diagnostic and therapeutic pathways for these individuals.

Dr. Michel Miller of Warwick Medical School, the lead author of the study, said: .. This condition is not well diagnosed and it is unclear whether undiagnosed sleep apnea poses an even greater risk. COVID-19 increases oxidative stress and inflammation and can affect the bradykinin pathway. Affected in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. It is not surprising that COVID-19 has a stronger impact if some individuals are already affected by these mechanisms. “

Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea Sustained positive airway pressure It is important to optimize treatment for these individuals, as (CPAP) has been shown to have some beneficial effects on these mechanisms. In the UK, the OSA Alliance’s British Sleep Society has published guidelines on the use of CPAP during pandemics.

Researchers feel that it is important for people diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea to be aware of the potential additional risks and to take appropriate precautions to reduce their exposure to the virus. I am. Further investigation is needed to determine if these individuals need to be added to the list of vulnerable groups that need to be protected in the event of increased viral infection.

Dr. Miller further states: “A group of patients who need to be more aware that obstructive sleep apnea may be an additional risk if COVID-19 occurs. Make sure they are treatment compliant. Take as many precautions as possible to reduce risk, such as wearing a mask, moving away from society, and getting tested as soon as you notice symptoms. Now you have a treatment plan. It should be done as carefully as possible. Hospitals and doctors should also record whether the patient is a patient or not. A potential risk factor is obstructive sleep apnea, COVID-19 study and results data. Need to be included in. More data is needed to determine if this is more of a concern for us. ”