Sleep apnea as a cardiovascular risk factor

One of the more frequent, potentially modifiable stroke risk factor is the obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea increases cardivascular mobidity and mortality, including stroke risk. The article summarizes the pathophysiology, symptoms and treatment of the sleep apnea syndrome. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the evidence based therapy of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The effective treatment of obstructive sleep apnea can decrease sympaticotony, consequently blood pressure, inflammatory and metabolic parameters can improve, leading to decreased cardiovascular risk. This article also summarizes the positive effects of continuous positive airway pressure therapy on cardiovascular risk factors in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.