Sleep Disorder Could Increase Risk of Stroke

If you have severe sleep apnea and are over the age of 70 you have a 2 1/2 greater chance of having an ischemic stroke. These findings were reported from a study done of older people in Spain. Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted for periods during sleep and is generally due to obstruction of the airway. If you are overweight or smoke you are at higher risk of sleep apnea. Other studies have already shown that sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure.

Ischemic strokes are those that are caused by a blockage of blood flow to the brain, generally from a clot. Stroke can cause severe disability or even death.

The study authors suggest that seniors should be evaluated for sleep apnea and treated with CPAP if necessary to help prevent stroke.