CPAP use may reduce Parkinson's risk for sleep apnea

A new study suggests that people with sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease. However, this risk may be reduced if they start using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine within two years of their sleep apnea diagnosis. Researchers found that about 40% of people with Parkinson's disease also have sleep apnea. The study indicates that treating sleep apnea promptly could lower the risk of not only Parkinson's but also other serious health issues like stroke and type 2 diabetes. The study analyzed medical records from over 1.5 million U.S. veterans. It compared those with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to those without the condition. They found that OSA patients had 1.8 more cases of Parkinson’s disease for every 1,000 individuals compared to the non-OSA group. People who used CPAP machines shortly after their diagnosis had a lower rate of Parkinson’s disease. Those who started using CPAP after two years had a similar risk to those who did not use CPAP at all. The findings suggest that treating OSA may help lower the risk of developing Parkinson's. Experts do not fully understand the relationship between sleep apnea and Parkinson's disease. Some believe that sleep apnea may increase the risk of Parkinson's, while others suggest the reverse could be true. Sleep apnea can cause reduced oxygen levels and lead to other health complications. Although Parkinson's disease can cause sleep problems, differentiating between the two conditions remains difficult. Treating sleep apnea is essential, as it is linked to various health risks. CPAP is often the recommended treatment, even though many patients struggle with its use due to comfort issues. Experts recommend seeking treatment for sleep apnea as soon as possible to reduce the risk of other health problems, including Alzheimer’s disease. If you think you have sleep apnea, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider.