However, we know that patients with both sleep apnea and Alzheimer's, and whose sleep apnea is treated, see a benefit in their memory, their cognition, and so on, recalled Dr. Minville. sleep is probably associated with more dementia problems, but the data on this subject are a little more variable in the literature.
A quote from Caroline Minville, University Institute of Cardiology and Pneumology of Quebec
A study like the one carried out by the American researchers, with all the limitations inherent in self-reported data like those they used, has at least the merit of reminding us that good quality sleep makes part of a healthy lifestyle, said Dr. Minville, and that it seems to contribute to good memory and good cognitive function.
Sleep apnea is clearly a condition that can contribute to poorer memory, poorer concentration and drowsiness, she said. There are still many patients who suffer from sleep apnea and who are not diagnosed, even though there is more and more screening and awareness.
Memory and concentration problems can have several causes, but people who experience them would do well to explore the possibility of sleep apnea with their family doctor, believes Dr. Minville, especially that treatments have greatly improved in recent years.
Treatment, she added, will not only improve factors like productivity at work, but also bring benefits such as a reduction in cardiovascular risks or depression.
There are several patients for whom it will really improve the quality of life, she noted.
The findings of this study have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal . They should be revealed next month at a meeting of the American Academy of Neurology.