Abstract

Bridging Sleep and Psychosis: A Deep Dive into the Overlap of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Schizophrenia

Author(s): Mohamed Binali

Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder characterized by positive and negative symptoms, cognitive impairments, and highly prevalent sleep disturbances. Conversely, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition wherein airflow is periodically reduced or halted during sleep due to upper airway obstruction, occurs at significantly higher rates in individuals with schizophrenia compared to the general population. While schizophrenia and OSA are distinct medical conditions, their intersection profoundly impacts diagnosis, treatment, and overall health outcomes. This review explores the epidemiological and clinical relationship between these two domains, emphasizing their dynamic overlap. Specifically, we examine the mechanistic bridge connecting sleep fragmentation, intermittent hypoxia and psychosis, highlighting the critical roles of neuroinflammation and orexin (hypocretin) signaling dysregulation.