Fatigue in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Driven by Depressive Symptoms Instead of Apnea Severity?

Abstract

After obstructive sleep apnea severity was controlled, higher levels of depressive symptoms were dramatically and independently associated with greater levels of fatigue. Assessment and treatment of mood symptoms-not just treatment of the disordered breathing itself-might reduce the fatigue experienced by patients with obstructive sleep apnea.