New tool could improve the quality of life of patients with epilepsy

Researchers have developed a new tool that could help neurologists detect obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in people with epilepsy – a disorder that disrupts the activity of nerve cells in the brain and causes seizures .

This study may determine the need for treatment, which may result in improved seizure control, a reduction in antiepileptic drugs, and a reduction in the risk of sudden and unexpected death in epilepsy, according to the researchers.

"Sleep disorders are common in people with epilepsy and are underdiagnosed," said lead author Martha A. Mulvey of Newark University Hospital.

"Epileptic seizures can often be triggered by low levels of oxygen during OSA, so sleep deprivation and sleep disruption can increase the frequency of seizures." , added Mr. Mulvey.

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, about 40% of people with epilepsy had a higher prevalence of OSA, which contributes to poor seizure control.

For the study, published in the journal Neurology Clinical Practice, the team developed an assessment to identify OSA, including 12 recognized risk factors. If a patient has at least two risk factors, he is referred to a sleep study.

Risk factors included body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 kg / m2, snoring, choking or sleeping, unexplained waking at night, morning headaches, dry mouth, sore throat or chest on waking decreased memory and concentration, neck circumference greater than 17 inches, excessive daytime sleepiness, insufficient or retrograde movement of the jaw and evaluation of the distance from the base of the tongue to the roof of the mouth.

The team found that of the 405 patients screened for OSA in the electronic health record, 33% had at least two risk factors and were referred to a sleep study.

They also found that of 82 patients who completed a sleep study, 87% had at least one mild sleep apnea.