Imagine your brain is a beautifully intricate machine. Now picture that machine running on varying levels of sleep, from too little to too much. How would it perform? This study explored the relationship between sleep disorders and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). By examining over 1500 stroke patients, researchers found that both long and short total sleep time (TST) were risk factors for cognitive impairment at 3 months, 6 months, and 4 years after stroke. Impaired sleep quality and sleepiness also contributed to cognitive impairment at the 4-year mark. These findings expand our understanding of how sleep can impact cognitive function during stroke recovery. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, the quality and quantity of your sleep may have long-term consequences for your brain’s functions. Further research in this field could help develop targeted interventions to optimize sleep patterns and improve cognitive outcomes in stroke survivors.
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of sleep disorders on post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) and other factors affecting post-stroke cognitive impairment.MethodsA total of 1,542 first-ever stroke inpatients in department of neurology of Tianjin Huanhu Hospital from 2015.6.1 to 2016.12.31. We recorded the personal history of patients. The MMSE (mini-mental state examination), MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), HAMD (Hamilton Depression Scale), BI (Barthel index), mRS (Modified Rankin Scale), PSQI (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), ESS (Epworth Sleepiness Scale), Berlin questionnaire, nocturnal TST (total sleep time) were assessed before discharge. All patients were followed up at 3 months, 6 months, and 4 years (2019–2020) after stroke. During follow-up, the above scales should be evaluated again to assess the sleep status and cognitive function of patients at that time.ResultsNocturnal TST (>8 h) (OR 3.540, 95% CI 1.692–7.406, P = 0.001) was a risk factor for cognitive impairment 3 months after stroke. Nocturnal TST (<7 h) (OR 6.504, 95% CI 3.404–12.427, P < 0.001) was a risk factor for cognitive impairment 6 months after stroke. Low sleep quality (OR 2.079, 95% CI 1.177–3.672, P = 0.012), sleepiness (OR 3.988, 95% CI 1.804–8.818, P = 0.001), nocturnal TST (<7 h) (OR 11.334, 95% CI 6.365–20.183, P < 0.001), nocturnal TST (>8 h) (OR 4.096, 95% CI 1.682–9.975, P = 0.002) were risk factors for cognitive impairment 4 years after stroke. The prevalence of cognitive impairment with TIA were 79.3% at admission, 68.1% at 3-months follow-up, 62.1% at 6-months follow-up and 52.2% at 4-year follow-up.ConclusionLong or short nocturnal TST (<7 h or >8 h) was a risk factor for cognitive impairment after stroke (3 months, 6 months and 4 years). Poor sleep quality and sleepiness were shown to be risk factors for cognitive impairment at 4-year follow-up. Cognitive impairment was very common in patients with TIA.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.