OBJECTIVES: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is highly prevalent in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), however, the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on erectile function has not yet been thoroughly investigated in these patients. METHODS: Ninety-four men with severe OSA (ie, with an apnea-hypopnea-index >/= 30/h of sleep) were prospectively evaluated for the presence and severity of ED before and after 6-12 months of CPAP therapy. The abbreviated version of the International Index of Erectile Function, (the IIEF-5) was used to rate erectile function. Furthermore, all study participants responded to standard questionnaires of daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale), quality of life (WHO Wellbeing 5 questionnaire) and depression (Major Depression Inventory). RESULTS: ED as defined by an IIEF-5 score of
Schulz, R.
Bischof, F.
Galetke, W.
Gall, H.
Heitmann, J.
Hetzenecker, A.
Laudenburg, M.
Magnus, T. J.
Nilius, G.
Priegnitz, C.
Randerath, W.
Schroder, M.
Treml, M.
Arzt, M.
German Sleep Apnea Research, Network
Keywords
- CPAP therapy
- Erectile dysfunction
- Sleep apnea
