Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders in the Elderly: Clinical Feature, Diagnosis and Treatments

ABSTRACT

Sleep-related breathing disorder in the elderly is common but not diagnosed and treated properly. Sleep apnea in the elderly differs from that in young adults and does not show overt sign of it such as snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. Co morbidities of elderly patients make it difficult to diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea. Untreated sleep-related breathing disorders can cause cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment and dementia. Sleep-related breathing disorder is diagnosed with thorough history taking and polysomnography. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is treatment of choice for sleep apnea in elderly. When patient failed to adapt in CPAP, oral appliance or surgical approach can be considered.