Effect of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) on Lung Function in Asthmatics With Sleep Apnea

Effect of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) on Airway Inflammation in Asthmatics With Sleep-Disordered Breathing: A Pilot Study

This is a research study of asthma and sleep apnea. Our hypothesis is that untreated sleep apnea causes inflammation in the lung, which can worsen asthma. We believe treatment of sleep apnea will reduce this inflammation, and improve asthma control. This study will help us better understand what happens to the lung and bronchial tubes before and after treatment of sleep apnea, which could benefit all patients with sleep apnea. This study involves 2 bronchoscopies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult (>18yrs at the time of recruitment)
• Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30
• Symptoms suggestive of sleep apnea
• Epworth Sleepiness Score (ESS) within range
• Positive sleep study for sleep apnea

Exclusion Criteria:

• Tobacco use within the last 3 months.
• Presence of other significant comorbid heart or lung disease
• Presence of another chronic inflammatory disease, such as connective-tissue disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or active infection.
• Use of systemic steroids, as defined as any prednisone use in the preceding 3 months.
• Use of leukotriene antagonists or theophylline within the preceding 6 weeks.
• Presence of severe or uncontrolled sinusitis, such that CPAP therapy will be difficult or uncomfortable.
• History of significant claustrophobia, uncontrolled psychiatric disease, or anticipated intolerance of CPAP therapy.
• Night shift workers, or other subjects with significantly altered sleep-wake cycles.
• Baseline post-bronchodilator FEV1 < 70% predicted.
• Severe gastroesophageal reflux disease.