These findings suggest an association between OSA and decreased metaboreflex control of MSNA. Muscle vasodilation during handgrip static exercise is preserved in patients with OSA.

We evaluated the effects of exercise training (ET) on the profile of mood states (POMS), heart rate variability, spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), and sleep disturbance severity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Forty-four patients were randomized into 2 groups, 18 patients completed the untrained period and 16 patients completed the exercise training (ET). Beat-to-beat heart rate and blood pressure were simultaneously collected for 5 min at rest. Heart rate variability (RR interval) was assessed in time domain and frequency domain (FFT spectral analysis). BRS was analyzed with the sequence method, and POMS was analyzed across the 6 categories (tension, depression, hostility, vigor, fatigue, and confusion). ET consisted of 3 weekly sessions of aerobic exercise, local strengthening, and stretching exercises (72 sessions, achieved in 40 ± 3.9 weeks). Baseline parameters were similar between groups. The comparisons between groups showed that the changes in apnea-hypopnea index, arousal index, and O 2 desaturation in the exercise group were significantly greater than in the untrained group (Po0.05). The heart rate variability and BRS were significantly higher in the exercise group compared with the untrained group (Po0.05). ET increased peak oxygen uptake (Po0.05) and reduced POMS fatigue (Po0.05). A positive correlation (r=0.60, Po0.02) occurred between changes in the fatigue item and OSA severity. ET improved heart rate variability, BRS, fatigue, and sleep parameters in patients with OSA. These effects were associated with improved sleep parameters, fatigue, and cardiac autonomic modulation, with ET being a possible protective factor against the deleterious effects of hypoxia on these components in patients with OSA.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of exercise training (ET) on muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and executive performance during Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT) also referred to as mental stress test. METHODS: Forty-four individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and no significant co-morbidities were randomized into 2 groups; 15 individuals completed the control period, and 18 individuals completed the ET. Mini-mental state of examination and intelligence quotient were also assessed. MSNA assessed by microneurography, heart rate by electrocardiography, blood pressure (automated oscillometric device) were measured at baseline and during 3 min of the SCWT. Peak oxygen uptake (VO 2 peak) was evaluated using cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Executive performance was assessed by the total correct responses during 3 min of the SCWT. ET consisted of 3 weekly sessions of aerobic exercise, resistance exercises, and flexibility (72 sessions, achieved in 40±3.9 weeks). RESULTS: Baseline parameters were similar between groups. Heart rate, blood pressure, and MSNA responses during SCWT were similar between groups ( p >0.05). The comparisons between groups showed that the changes in VO 2 (4.7±0.8 vs -1.2±0.4) and apnea-hypopnea index (-7.4±3.1 vs 5.5±3.3) in the exercise-trained group were significantly greater than those observed in the control group respectively ( p <0.05) after intervention. ET reduced MSNA responses ( p <0.05) and significantly increased the number of correct answers (12.4%) during SCWT. The number of correct answers was unchanged in the control group ( p >0.05). CONCLUSIONS: ET improves sympathetic response and executive performance during SCWT, suggesting a prominent positive impact of ET on prefrontal functioning in individuals with OSA. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT002289625.