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CTE vs. Sleep Apnea
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, is a neurodegenerative brain disorder attributed to repeated blows. Originally referred to as “punch-drunk syndrome,” CTE commonly effects impact sport athletes, such as hockey players, boxers, and American football players. CTE diagnoses have also been confirmed in combat veterans and victims of domestic abuse that have experienced repeated head trauma. While treating CTE, doctors often overlook other treatable conditions contributing to the symptoms, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It is essential to diagnose and manage sleep disorders early.
CTE Symptoms
CTE research has primarily been conducted amongst former football players due to the substantial prevalence of the condition within this niche group. While there is still much to learn about CTE, symptoms can include emotional and behavioral changes such as mood swings, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Other signs of cognitive impairment can also occur, such as difficulty concentrating and short-term memory loss.
In one Harvard study, nearly 3% (108) of the former football players surveyed reported they had received a diagnosis of CTE from a physician or another clinician. However, in their efforts to identify CTE among professional athletes, doctors may be overlooking a more common source for cognitive impairment.
A Sleep Disorder Behind Cognitive Impairment
Those with a diagnosis of CTE in the study were more likely also to report a diagnosis of other comorbidities, including sleep apnea, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, depression, and obesity. (Note: CTE can only be accurately diagnosed postmortem.) Sleep apnea, in particular, is likely to cause cognitive symptoms similar to those of CTE patients. As such, doctors who are working with patients at-risk for CTE should also prioritize treatable managing conditions such as OSA.
The Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
While CTE shouldn’t be written off completely, doctors need to thoroughly consider all other potential causes of poor cognitive performance among those who have suffered head trauma. After all, sleep apnea affects approximately 22 million Americans, and a majority of those cases are undiagnosed and untreated.
OSA is a sleep disorder in which the muscles in the back of the throat collapse, causing the soft tissue to block the airway and prevent oxygen from getting to the lungs. These episodes of paused breathing, known as apneas, can occur up to 30 times per hour in severe cases.
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Difficulty concentrating during the day (similar to CTE)
- Awakening with a dry mouth
- Forgetfulness (similar to CTE)
- Morning headache
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Mood changes (identical to CTE)
Sleep Apnea and Physical Health
Individuals diagnosed with CTE may not see the connection between their health issues and poor sleep.
OSA may raise the risk of other comorbidities, including stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Studies have also shown a direct link between depression and sleep apnea.
Importance of Identifying Sleep Apnea Early in Athletes
A study with college-age linemen suggests an increased risk of developing sleep apnea due to excess fat tissue deposits around the neck.
Early diagnosis of sleep apnea among college athletes can lead to natural and effective treatment, such as CPAP therapy, that may minimize long-term cognitive and physical health issues.
Older Athletes: Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment
CTE or not, former athletes can and should still confirm a diagnosis for sleep apnea. Left untreated, sleep apnea raises the risks of short- and long-term health concerns, but it can also mimic symptoms of cognitive disorders.
Home sleep studies are a convenient and straightforward way for athletes to know if they have to be treated for sleep disorders. Broken sleep can severely impact cognitive and physical health. Thankfully, managing a sleep disorder is easy!
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