Nocturnal hyperventilation in pregnancy - reversal with nasal continuous positive airway pressure

Article Abstract:

Severe shortness of breath in pregnancy may be controlled safely and effectively by use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure. At the 25th week, a 41-year-old mother pregnant with twins began experiencing disabling shortness of breath at night and often during the day. The condition did not improve with carbamazepine, antiinflammatory drugs or carbon dioxide rebreathing. Her husband suggested nasal continuous positive airway pressure, which he used to treat his obstructive sleep apnea. This treatment controlled the hyperventilation attacks and allowed the pregnancy to continue without complications. Polysomnographic sleep recordings made for two nights at 31 weeks of pregnancy confirmed the improvements in sleep. Total sleep time increased to 389.5 minutes from 266 and efficiency of sleep increased to 76% from 56%. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure may assist functional capacity of the upper airways.

Airway obstruction (Medicine), Airway obstruction, Pregnancy, Complications of, Pregnancy complications, Hyperventilation

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Sleep in multiple pregnancy: breathing patterns, oxygenation, and periodic leg movements

Article Abstract:

Oxygen levels and nighttime breathing may not be compromised in women pregnant with multiple fetuses. Researchers measured nighttime breathing, oxygen levels, and gross motor movements in a sleep study of 10 women with multiple pregnancies. Oxygen levels stayed above 90%, and no major breathing disturbances occurred. Women experienced a reduction in sleep quality in pregnancy, which correlated with the high number of leg movements during sleep. Significant partial upper airway obstruction was observed only in the woman who was obese and pregnant with quadruplets. The 10 women delivered 23 babies, eight of whom were small for gestational age. The enlarged uteri were not found to cause breathing obstructions, and breathing obstructions were not thought to cause growth restriction.

Measurement, Physiological aspects, Pregnant women, Oxygen, Respiration, Oxygen in the body, Sleep movements

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When does estrogen replacement therapy improve sleep quality?

Article Abstract:

Estrogen replacement therapy appears to improve sleep quality in postmenopausal women and may reduce other symptoms of menopause. This was the conclusion of a study of 63 postmenopausal women who began estrogen replacement treatment. Estrogen not only improved sleep quality but also reduced the incidence of hot flashes, muscular pain, heart palpitations, and mood alterations. Sleep quality improved even in the 15 women who had no severe menopausal symptoms.

Psychological aspects, Hormone therapy, Postmenopausal women, Estrogen, Estrogens, Sleep disorders

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