Kardiologie up2date 2008; 4(4): 347-368
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1103470
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© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Obstruktives Schlafapnoe-Syndrom und Herz-Kreislauf-Krankheiten

Harald  H.  Schäfer
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Publikationsdatum:
30. Dezember 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Sleep-disordered breathing is recognized as an increasing public health burden. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by repetitive obstructions of the upper airway associated with respiratory efforts and disturbance of normal sleep. Besides the neurocognitive impairment with daytime sleepiness there are mounting data suggesting an important causative role of OSA in cardiovascular disease, especially systemic hypertension. The proposed mechanisms are increased reactive oxygen species and inflammation resulting in endothelial dysfunction. In addition, longitudinal studies highlightened the associations of OSA with increased mortality from cardiac events. Central sleep apnea, especially Cheyne-Stokes-respiration, is frequently found in patients with heart failure and may be of pathophysiologic significance in heart failure outcomes. Diagnostic workup of patients at risk is warranted and effective treatment may improve long-term-outcome.

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Prof. Dr. med. Harald H. Schäfer

SHG Kliniken Völklingen
Innere Medizin II-Pneumologie
Lungenzentrum Saar

Richardstr. 5 – 9
66333 Völklingen

eMail: h.schaefer.vk@shg-kliniken.de