Effects of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Cerebral Vascular Response to Hypoxia in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract

The cerebral blood flow response to hypoxia is significantly reduced in patients with OSA. Treatment of OSA with CPAP increases the cerebral blood flow response to hypoxia to normal levels. An attenuated cerebrovascular response to hypoxia in patients with OSA may contribute to their elevated risk of stroke.