Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) and Menopause

Abstract

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is a sleep disorder in which intermittent hypoxia and systemic inflammation mechanisms are prominent, leading to many serious health problems. Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases are among the leading clinical problems caused by OSAS. When left untreated, its reflection on society is increased morbidity and mortality rates. For this reason, many clinical studies have focused on the reasons that increase the risk of OSAS. Menopause has taken its place in research as one of these reasons. The fluctuation in the secretion of female reproductive hormones manifests itself in a wide range of problems in the field of sleep, ranging from insomnia to OSAS. Hormonal changes and body fat distribution are thought to play an important role in the pathology leading to OSAS. The aim of this article is to provide a better understanding of the bridges between OSAS and menopause and to show that sleep-related problems of women close to menopause age who come to health examinations may indicate OSAS even if they do not have obvious complaints.