Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can cause a wide range of health problems and many people understand that it can affect sufferers’ sleep cycles, but did you know that OSA can have a negative effect on your heart? This disorder can put a lot of stress on the heart and contribute to conditions such as hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, heart disease, and sudden death. Below, we will discuss some of the most dangerous consequences of leaving OSA undiagnosed and/or untreated. If you or someone you know thinks they may suffer from OSA, it is important to get treatment as soon as possible.
OSA is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s airway becomes blocked during sleep. This can cause the person to snore loudly and frequently, and it can also disrupt their breathing. OSA can put a lot of stress on the heart and contribute to many other complications, conditions, and disorders.
Hypertension is one of the most common cardiac effects of OSA. This condition occurs when the patient’s blood pressure is too high. Over time, hypertension can damage the arteries and lead to a heart attack or stroke. Hypertension is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if left untreated.
OSA can also contribute to the development of heart disease. Heart disease is a broad term that covers a number of different conditions that can damage the heart muscle, valves, or arteries. OSA can contribute to a variety of different types of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmias. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States and it is important to get treatment if you think you may be at risk.
Coronary artery disease is a serious effect of OSA. This condition occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become blocked or narrowed. This can cause a heart attack or cardiac arrest.
Congestive heart failure is a condition that can occur when the heart is not able to pump blood properly. This can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body.
Cardiac arrhythmias are another potential consequence of OSA. This disorder occurs when the heart beats too fast, slow, or irregularly. Cardiac arrhythmias can develop anytime and they may need to be monitored and/or treated with medication.
Sudden death is the most severe complication of OSA. This can occur when the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly. Sudden death is often caused by a cardiac arrhythmia.
If you think that you or someone you know may suffer from OSA, it is important to seek the advice of a medical professional and to get treatment as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid the serious complications of this disorder such as those that affect the heart. OSA can often be treated with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and quitting smoking. In some cases, you may also need to use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to help keep your airway open during sleep. Either way, there are solutions! Talk to a sleep apnea specialist and find yours today.