How Sleep Apnea May Increase the Risk of Parkinson’s Disease: What Studies Reveal (2026)
- F.dora
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
Sleep apnea, especially obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is more than just snoring. It disrupts breathing repeatedly during sleep, lowering oxygen levels and affecting brain health. Recent studies have found a potential link between sleep apnea and Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder.
This 2026 guide dives into how sleep apnea may increase your risk of developing Parkinson’s and what you can do to prevent it.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. There are two main types:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): Caused by blocked airways.
Central sleep apnea: Brain fails to send proper signals to breathing muscles.
Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Loud snoring
Gasping for air during sleep
Daytime fatigue
Headaches in the morning
Left untreated, sleep apnea leads to complications like heart disease, diabetes, and now possibly Parkinson’s.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement. It gradually damages the brain's dopamine-producing neurons.
Common Symptoms:
Tremors
Muscle stiffness
Slow movement
Impaired posture and balance
Parkinson's has no known cure but can be managed with early detection and proper treatment.
The Scientific Link Between Sleep Apnea and Parkinson’s
Several researchers believe that chronic oxygen deprivation and sleep fragmentation caused by sleep apnea may accelerate brain degeneration, including in regions affected by Parkinson's.
Potential Mechanisms:
Repeated oxygen drops may damage dopamine-producing neurons.
Sleep disturbances can affect brain detoxification.
Inflammation triggered by apnea may harm the nervous system.
Key Studies and Medical Research (2026 Update)
Here are some recent studies highlighting the possible correlation:
University of Toronto (2025): Found 70% increased Parkinson’s risk among patients with untreated severe OSA.
Taiwanese Cohort Study: Sleep apnea patients were 1.8x more likely to develop Parkinson’s.
Lancet Neurology 2024 Review: Suggests early OSA management could delay or reduce neurodegeneration risk.
Key takeaway: Long-term untreated sleep apnea may increase the risk of Parkinson's by triggering oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
Warning Signs: What to Watch For
If you or your loved ones experience both sleep apnea and these symptoms, it’s time to act:
Worsening motor control (e.g., shaky hands)
Frequent falls or imbalance
Sudden memory issues
Worsening fatigue and mental fog
Early detection helps manage both conditions more effectively.
Diagnosis and Testing Options in Malaysia
How to Get Diagnosed:
Sleep Study (Polysomnography): Measures oxygen, breathing, brain activity.
Home Sleep Apnea Tests (HSAT): Affordable and convenient option in Malaysia.
Parkinson’s Diagnosis:
Neurological evaluation
Brain scans (MRI or DaTscan)
Motor skills assessment
Managing Sleep Apnea to Reduce Risks
Treating sleep apnea early can protect your brain health. Here are effective treatments:
Common Sleep Apnea Treatments
CPAP machines (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
Oral appliances
Weight loss and lifestyle changes
Surgery in severe cases
Proactive Measures:
Sleep on your side
Avoid alcohol and sedatives
Maintain a regular sleep schedule
Did You Know?
1 in 3 Malaysians with sleep apnea remains undiagnosed.
Snoring is often the first visible sign of sleep apnea.
Parkinson's can take years to develop from early brain changes triggered by sleep deprivation.
CPAP therapy not only improves sleep but also protects long-term brain function.
Conclusion
The connection between sleep apnea and Parkinson’s disease is a growing area of concern. With Malaysia's aging population and rising OSA cases, awareness is critical. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, act now before neurological symptoms appear.
Prevention starts with early testing and treatment.
FAQs
1. Can sleep apnea really cause Parkinson's?
Not directly, but studies show untreated sleep apnea may increase the risk.
2. Is sleep apnea reversible?
With treatment like CPAP or surgery, symptoms can be significantly improved.
3. What are the early signs of sleep apnea?
Loud snoring, gasping for air, and chronic fatigue.
4. Is there a cure for Parkinson’s?
No cure yet, but early management can improve quality of life.
5. Where can I get a sleep apnea test in Malaysia?
You can book affordable tests starting from RM50 with our services (details below).
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