RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common sleep disturbance in people of all ages, while dementia is an increasing entity among the ageing population of the world. Recent studies have established a link between sleep apnoea and cognitive decline. This literature review explores this relationship and examines the mechanisms, neurobiology and treatment modalities. DESIGN: The study was conducted with the use of narrative literature overview. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: While there are numerous studies that establish a clear relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea, cognitive decline and dementia, more work is needed in understanding the mechanism and processes involved. A detailed understanding of pathophysiology of sleep and the relationship with cognitive decline will be vital in addressing the possibility of averting a likely reversible cause of dementia or cognitive decline.
