Effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract Purpose of Review Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder with significant cardiovascular implications, affecting a broad adult demographic. This review explores OSA’s link to cardiovascular diseases and assesses Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy’s role in managing these conditions. Recent Findings OSA is associated with coronary heart disease, heart failure, hypertension, arrhythmias, and pulmonary hypertension, due to intermittent hypoxia, inflammation, and sympathetic activation. CPAP therapy, known for enhancing sleep and reducing daytime fatigue, has varying impacts on cardiovascular health. Summary While results on coronary heart disease are mixed, CPAP shows promise in improving heart failure outcomes, reducing hypertension, and managing arrhythmias, with potential benefits for pulmonary hypertension through improved hemodynamics. This underscores CPAP’s value in OSA’s holistic management, highlighting its beyond-respiratory benefits. However, adherence challenges persist, calling for more research on CPAP’s long-term cardiovascular effects. This advocates a multidisciplinary approach to OSA, considering its extensive health consequences.