A neurologist has raised concerns regarding a common sleep behavior that could potentially damage the brain and elevate the risk of dementia. Dr. Baibing Cheng, also known as Dr. Bing, highlighted the potential dangers of excessive snoring in a video posted on TikTok. While controlling snoring may be challenging, consulting a healthcare provider, especially if linked to sleep apnoea, could be beneficial.
Dr. Cheng explained that loud snoring could harm specific blood vessels, leading to an increased susceptibility to strokes and dementia. He emphasized that frequent snoring, indicating interrupted breathing during sleep, could result in repetitive oxygen deprivation to the brain, causing small blood vessel injuries associated with silent strokes and a heightened dementia risk.
Moreover, Dr. Cheng pointed out that persistent snoring could have adverse effects on brain structure, citing MRI studies showing a reduction in grey matter in brain areas critical for memory and cognition among habitual snorers. He cautioned that ongoing snoring disturbances could disrupt deep sleep stages, particularly the N3 stage crucial for feeling rejuvenated, ultimately hindering the brain’s overnight restoration process.
Research findings support Dr. Cheng’s advice, with a study published in the Sleep journal revealing elevated levels of beta-amyloid plaques, a key Alzheimer’s disease marker, in individuals with sleep apnoea. Professor Stephen Robinson from RMIT University in Australia highlighted the correlation between mid-life sleep apnoea and a higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s in later years, emphasizing the bidirectional association between Alzheimer’s and sleep apnoea.
Recognizing the symptoms of sleep apnoea, predominantly manifesting during sleep, is crucial according to the NHS. Daytime symptoms and observations from others are also indicative of potential sleep apnoea, warranting consultation with a GP for diagnosis and treatment. Timely intervention is essential as untreated sleep apnoea can have serious implications if left unaddressed.
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