ABSTRACT

We aimed to investigate the relationship between polysomnographic (PSG) findings and sexual functions of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) caused by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome. and point out the alteration in the sexual functions after continous positive airway pressure (CPAP) theraphy.

Patients referred to Yunus Emre State Hospital sleep laboratory between May 2013 and October 2013 with a complaints of snoring and apnea during sleep and have apnea hypopnea index (AHI)>15 were the subjects of this prospective clinical study. All patients were asked to fill IIEF (International Index of Erectile Function) test before and after 12 weeks of CPAP theraphy.

As well as total IIEF-15 scores, each score of five questions (erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, overall satisfaction) were significantly increased after nasal CPAP therapy (p<0.05). Twenty-one (84%) and 10 (40%) patients had ED before and after CPAP treatment respectively and the changing was statistically significant (p=0.003). The correlation analysis was revealed no significant relation between the IIEF-15 (total & five item) scores and PSG findings.

Our findings revealed that CPAP therapy improves ED of men with OSAS. Although ED is not a mortal complaint, it has remarkable impact on mens’ life and might be improved after CPAP theraphy.

Keywords: Apnea hypopnea index, erectile dysfuntion, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome