Can Snoring During Sleep Trigger a Stroke? A Neurologist Explains
A neurology specialist has stated that the habit of snoring during sleep could be a sign of a serious sleep disorder that carries the risk of causing stroke and even dementia.
Dr Pramod Krishnan, Head of Neurology, Epileptology, and Sleep Medicine at Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road in Bengaluru, India, explained that snoring is not merely a habit but can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
“Increasing scientific evidence shows that snoring should not be taken lightly. This condition can be a sign of a serious sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea,” said Krishnan, as quoted from the Hindustan Times.
OSA is a sleep disorder that causes the upper airway to become blocked during sleep. As a result, breathing may repeatedly stop and restart throughout the night. In addition to loud snoring, OSA is also characterised by several other symptoms, such as:
Waking up feeling unrefreshed despite having slept.
Excessive daytime sleepiness.
Headaches upon waking.
Increased drowsiness and difficulty concentrating, which interferes with daily activities.
However, Krishnan explained that snoring without these accompanying symptoms is generally not too concerning. Nevertheless, if other complaints arise simultaneously, a medical examination is highly recommended.
Why Can Snoring Cause Stroke and Dementia?
Krishnan explained that in OSA sufferers, there is a repeated decrease in blood oxygen levels due to the blocked airway during sleep. This condition causes sleep quality to be continuously disrupted throughout the night.
“In OSA patients, sleep becomes fragmented because blood oxygen levels repeatedly drop due to obstructions in the upper airway. Breathing appears to stop and restart repeatedly during sleep,” he said.
He noted that continuous poor sleep quality can increase the risk of various diseases, including brain disorders such as stroke and dementia. He also added that repeated drops in oxygen levels can trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and even damage to nerve cells, particularly in parts of the brain responsible for memory and cognitive function.
Various studies also show that OSA sufferers tend to experience declines in thinking ability, attention, executive function, information processing speed, and memory.
How to Treat Sleep Apnea
Krishnan emphasised that this sleep disorder should be addressed immediately, especially if someone experiences persistent snoring.
He suggested that the primary therapy for OSA is the use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), a device that helps keep the airway open during sleep. Additionally, weight loss is also an important step in reducing the severity of the disease.
However, he reminded that an OSA diagnosis must be performed by medical professionals. Anyone who snores frequently accompanied by excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, or whose partner observes frequent breathing pauses during sleep should consult a doctor immediately for proper examination and treatment.