Sleep apnea

How is sleep apnea related to schizophrenia?

People with schizophrenia may show increased rates of co-occurring conditions including sleep apnea. The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the muscles of the upper airway relax in such a way that they block the airway during sleep. As a result, obstructive sleep apnea is associated with daytime sleepiness, cognitive dysfunction, and the development of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and abnormalities in glucose metabolism. Obstructive sleep apnea also has adverse effects on quality of life, and can lead to anxiety and depression symptoms.

What is the evidence for comorbid sleep apnea?

Moderate quality evidence suggests rates of obstructive sleep apnea vary across studies (13.5% to 57%), and may be similar to general population rates. Rates are lower in people with schizophrenia than in people with bipolar disorder or major depression. Correlates of OSA include increased age, larger neck circumference, male sex, and higher body mass index.

June 2020

Last updated at: 2:47 am, 19th June 2020
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