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Is sleep apnea related to reduction of gray matter in the brain?

Written by: David Castillo on February 5th, 2010

Is sleep apnea related to reduction of gray matter in the brain? | read this item

New research from South Korea indicates that people who suffer from severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have reduced concentrations of gray matter in multiple areas of the brain.

Gray matter refers to the brain’s cerebral cortex, where most of the analyzing processes take place. The changes in brain structure maybe the cause of heart and memory problems—which are both common in individuals with OSA.

“Poor sleep quality and progressive brain damage induced by OSA could be responsible for poor memory, emotional problems, decreased cognitive functioning and increased cardiovascular disturbances,” explained Dr. Seung Bong Hong, the principal investigator. “The use of continuous positive airway pressure therapy could stop further progression of brain damage in patients with severe OSA.”

The study was conducted on 36 men, all with OSA. The age demographic was 32-45 years old and they were all diagnosed as healthy individuals.

The results indicated that there were no reductions in the concentration of gray matter. However, there were also no significant changes in gray matter.

Experts say that more research is needed to study if there is a relationship between gray matter and sleep apnea.

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