An association between chronic cough and sleep apnea
Recent studies have suggested a link between chronic cough and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of suspected OSA in Japanese adults suffering from chronic cough.
Study details
The study recruited patients aged 20 years and older, with a persistent cough lasting more than 8 weeks. Home sleep tests were conducted to assess respiratory events, and suspected OSA was defined by a respiratory event index of 5 events per hour or more.
Notable results
Out of 23 patients, 20 were suspected of having OSA, despite a relatively low daytime sleepiness score. The respiratory event index was high, indicating a significant prevalence of OSA in these patients, even with a relatively low body mass index (BMI).
Implications for patients
These results underscore the importance of screening for sleep apnea in patients suffering from chronic cough, even if they do not exhibit daytime sleepiness. This may change the way these patients are evaluated and treated for their respiratory disorders.
This article is provided for information only and does not replace medical advice. For any question about your own situation, talk to your doctor.
