Sleep Apnea prevalence among IBS Patients in Qena University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Sleep disruptions impact health, correlating with cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and higher mortality. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) involves abdominal pain, altered stool habits, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Objectives: To screen for obstructive sleep apnea among patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Patients and methods: This cross-sectional study at Qena University Hospital involved adults diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) per Rome IV criteria. Evaluations included personal data, general examinations for vital signs and BMI, and screening for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and STOP-BANG Questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the study population was 46.77±12.24 years, with 45% male (135). Epworth Sleepiness Scale averaged 3.78 ± 6.72, with 14% (42) having excessive sleepiness (score>10). STOP-BANG score averaged [2.49 ± 1.89], classifying 72.33% (217) as low risk, 13% (39) as intermediate risk, and 14.67% (44) as high risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). High-risk patients were older (mean age 56.75 years) and had higher BMI (38.77kg/m²) compared to low and intermediate risk groups (P<0.0001). Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea among patients with IBS, emphasizing OSA screening importance in older, higher BMI patients. Routine screenings could enhance patient care, integrating lifestyle changes and medical interventions.