The Relationship Between Epilepsy, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Treatment Outcome

Both epilepsy and obstructive sleep apnea are common conditions and hence frequently coexist in a given patient. A complex bidirectional relationship exists between the 2 conditions where the presence of one affects the other. Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure may improve seizure control in medically refractory epilepsy patients, leading to improved quality of life. Understanding of this complex relationship between epilepsy, sleep, and sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea continues to evolve.