Clinical Approach to Patients with COVID-19 and Unrecognized Obstructive Sleep Apnea

TL;DR

This study shows that undiagnosed sleep apnea may worsen COVID-19 outcomes, and treating it with CPAP can improve breathing and recovery.

Contribution

The study highlights the novel link between undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea and severe COVID-19, suggesting CPAP treatment as a potential intervention.

Findings

All seven patients had severe obstructive sleep apnea confirmed by cardiorespiratory polygraphy.

CPAP treatment improved overnight oxygenation and symptoms in patients with undiagnosed sleep apnea.

Undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea may worsen respiratory failure in COVID-19 patients.

Abstract

Purpose: We conducted a retrospective case series of seven male COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure and suspected OSA based on clinical features to evaluate the effects of undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on COVID-19 outcomes and the response to a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment. Cardiorespiratory polygraphy (CRP) and a continuous positive airway pressure treatment were used for diagnosis and management. They confirmed severe obstructive sleep apnea in all patients (apnea/hypopnea index > 30) and improved overnight oxygenation and symptoms at the 1-month follow-up. Conclusions: Undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea may negatively impact COVID-19 outcomes by exacerbating respiratory failure. Recognition and treatment with continuous positive airway pressure can optimize the management of such patients.

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