Sleep-related disorders in patients with precapillary pulmonary hypertension

Abstract

Precapillary pulmonary hypertension (PcPH) is associated with the development of sleep-related disorders and impairment of sleep quality. With growing recognition of the clinical relevance of sleep-related conditions in PcPH, this narrative review seeks to discuss the spectrum of disorders encountered in clinical practice, pathophysiological mechanisms linking PcPH with sleep-related disorders, and potential therapeutic considerations. Current evidence demonstrates a higher prevalence of impaired sleep quality, sleep-disordered breathing, sleep-related hypoxia, and restless leg syndrome in patients with PcPH. These sleep-related disorders could further lead to impairment of quality of life in a patient population with already a high symptom burden. Recent data suggest that sleep-related hypoxia is strongly linked to worse right ventricular function and higher risk of transplantation or death. However, limited studies have investigated the role of oxygen therapy or positive airway pressure therapy improving symptoms or outcomes. Abnormal iron homeostasis is highly prevalent in PcPH and may contribute to the development of restless legs syndrome/periodic limb movement of sleep. To improve sleep management in PcPH, we highlight future research agenda and advocate close collaboration between pulmonary hypertension specialists and sleep physicians.

Keywords: Insomnia; Pulmonary hypertension; Restless leg syndrome; Sleep quality; Sleep-disordered breathing; Sleep-related hypoxia.