Some Asthma Medications may Increase Risk of Sleep Apnea

A recent study shows that taking certain asthma medications may increase the risk of sleep apnea-a sleep disorder that causes individuals to experience brief pauses in their breathing patterns during rest periods. This sleep disorder can result in disrupted sleep patterns as well as more severe health issues, including high blood pressure, heart attack and even stroke if left untreated.

Lead study author Dr. Mihaela Teodorescu recruited 18 male and female participants who were diagnosed with asthma to further examine the issue. All of the participants were taking 1,760 micrograms of the treatment, flucticasone (Flovent), which is used through an inhaler. The researchers studied any changes found in their upper airways and tongue function during sleep.

All 18 participants showed changes via two specific areas that were similar to those with sleep apnea. For three in particular, researchers used MRIs to measure their fat levels and even found that some fat had been redistributed in the neck and caused airways to narrow-a problem commonly seen in those suffering from sleep apnea.

"Inhaled corticosteroids may predispose to sleep apnea in some asthma patients," said Dr. Teodorescu, an associate professor of medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, in Madison, via WebMD.

However, researchers note that those taking asthma medications should continue with their regular prescriptions. However, they may want to discuss changing medications with their doctor if they snore heavily.

The researchers also concluded that a larger study sample is needed in order to confirm a firm link for the study's results.

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More information regarding the study can be found via the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.