Obstructive sleep apnea and neurocognitive performance: the role of cortisol.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent disorder with multiple consequences including negative effects on neurocognitive function. Several domains of cognitive function are impaired in OSA patients, but the mechanisms through which this sleep disorder results in impairment are not clear. Given the well-known effects of cortisol on cognitive function, in particular memory, the dysregulating effects of OSA on cortisol levels are hypothesized as a potential pathway leading to cognitive impairment.

Methods

Fifty-five participants with OSA (mean apnea-hypopnea index [AHI], 30.3) were assessed over 2 days. Over a 24-h period, blood samples were collected every 2h to examine cortisol levels. The following night, sleep was monitored with polysomnography (PSG). Partic

SUBMITTER: Edwards KM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3906433 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature