The impact of obstructive sleep apnea therapy on dizziness symptoms

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34631/sporl.3143

Keywords:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Dizziness, Vertigo, Sleep Disorders, Polysomnography

Abstract

Objective: This study assessed dizziness prevalence in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) patients and the impact of OSA therapy on these symptoms.

Study Design: Prospective cohort study

Methods: 226 patients aged 18-64 with an Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) > 5 undergoing OSA therapy for at least two years were included. Data were collected from medical records. Dizziness before and after treatment was evaluated via questionnaire. Logistic regression and McNemar’s test were used for analysis.

Results: Before treatment, 28,3% (64/226) of patients reported dizziness, with a higher prevalence in females (42,7%) than males (21,2%). Female gender was a significant predictor of dizziness (OR=2,77, p=0,001), while higher AHI correlated with reduced dizziness (ß = -0,014, p=0,038). Following 2 years of therapy, dizziness persisted in only 14% (9/64), a significant reduction (p>0,001).

Conclusion: This study highlights the strong relationship between OSA and dizziness, with OSA therapy significantly reducing dizziness symptoms.

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References

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Published

2026-03-07

How to Cite

Barbosa, J., Gaspar, A., Morgado, F., Delgado, I., Aguiar, M., Santos, A., … Macor, C. (2026). The impact of obstructive sleep apnea therapy on dizziness symptoms. Portuguese Journal of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, 64(1), 87–93. https://doi.org/10.34631/sporl.3143

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Original Article