How does untreated sleep apnea affect cognitive function?

Untreated sleep apnea can significantly impair cognitive function due to the intermittent interruptions in breathing that disrupt sleep cycles. This leads to fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen flow to the brain, both of which are critical for maintaining cognitive processes.

As a result, individuals may experience difficulties with attention, concentration, and memory. The lack of restorative sleep caused by sleep apnea can lead to fatigue, decreased alertness, and slower reaction times, all of which negatively impact overall cognitive performance. These impairments also extend to higher-level functions such as decision-making and problem-solving capabilities by affecting the brain's ability to process information efficiently.

In contrast, the other options suggest improvements or no effects on cognitive function, which contradicts the established understanding of how untreated sleep apnea impacts cognitive health. Thus, the correct answer highlights the detrimental effects of untreated sleep apnea on cognitive function.