A Fox4KC news report examines recent research that shows adults with untreated sleep apnea begin their decline in memory and thinking earlier than those without the disorder.

Recent research finds people 55 and older who have untreated sleep apnea begin their decline in memory and thinking much earlier than those without the disorder. On average, it was at age 77 compared to age 90. Those who developed Alzheimer’s Disease developed it five years earlier.

Dr. Jason Graff, a sleep specialist at Saint Luke’s, says the association makes sense considering people with untreated apnea aren’t getting enough oxygen to the brain.

“If you don’t think you’re as sharp as you used to be, if you have snoring, fatigue or sleepiness as well, sleep apnea may be a cause of that and treating that may be able to get your memory back,” said Dr. Graff.

Read the full story at www.fox4kc.com