Heart Function in Patients Assessed for Sleep Apnoea

Heart Function in Patients Assessed for Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB)

This study aims to determine the prevalence and prognosis of heart failure with preserved ejection function (HFpEF) among patients being assessed for sleep disordered breathing (SDB).

Patients with sleep disordered breathing (SDB) and those with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) share similar characteristics. Increasing age, hypertension, obesity, diabetes mellitus and atrial fibrillation are well recognised links in both groups. It also known that SDB is common in patients with heart failure, both with reduced and preserved ejection fraction. It is therefore hypothesised that among patients being referred for SDB assessment, we can identify a group with unrecognised HFpEF.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged ≥40 years and referred for respiratory polygraphy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous diagnosis of Heart Failure
• Treated sleep disordered breathing