Can snoring intensity predict high blood pressure in the obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome?

Abstract

Introduction: Snoring is one of the most common symptoms of the obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Many studies have shown that some medical problems are related to snoring independently of the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI). The aim of this study was to explore the relations between the objectively measured intensity of snoring and high blood pressure.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 130 patients (2016-2018) referred for OSAHS suspicion and who underwent respiratory polygraphy with measurement of the intensity of snoring. The snorers with an AHI < 5 were excluded from the study. High blood pressure (HBP) was defined as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥ 140 and / or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 90 mmHg or the use of an anti-hypertensive medication. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS software version 20.

Results: The mean age among our study population (53 males/77 females) was 53,89 ± 8,49 years. A significant correlation was found between the mean intensity of snoring and that of SBP (r = 0,3, p = 0,001) and DBP (r = 0,187, p = 0,033). The mean intensity of snoring (dB) in hypertensive patients (69,37 ± 3,34) was significantly higher (p = 0,01) than in non-hypertensive patients (65,32 ± 11,36). In multivariate analysis with forced entry of potential cofounding factors (Gender, Age, BMI, Smoking), the mean intensity of snoring was an independent predictive factor of HBP (OR = 1,31, p <0,0001, CI: 1,13-1,51).

Conclusion: Snoring is a risk factor for hypertension independently from the severity of OSAHS, obesity, gender, age, smoking.