Sleep Apnea (OSA)
& Heart Disease

The circulatory system (heart and blood) is responsible for delivering oxygen to all the cells in your body. Every time an OSA patient stops breathing during the night, the amount of oxygen in the blood decreases, which means the cells in the body are not getting the oxygen they need. Heart rate increases in an effort to raise oxygen levels in the blood and deliver oxygen to cells. When this happens repeatedly throughout the night, it increases the stress on your circulatory system and creates a serious medical condition.

Some studies suggest that OSA causes hypertension (high blood pressure). OSA is also strongly correlated with the following cardiovascular conditions:

Other Complications correlated to Sleep Apnea

• Daytime fatigue

  Severe daytime drowsiness, fatigue, and irritability are common complications related to Sleep Apnea. Normal, restorative sleep is virtually impossible due to the repeated awakenings associated with sleep apnea. People complain and have difficulty concentrating or find they fall asleep at work, while watching TV or even while driving. Another strong indicator is irritability, moodiness, or depression. Sleep apnea is also linked to children and adolescents who may do poorly in school or have behavioral problems.

• Headaches

  Sleep apnea can cause morning headaches, memory problems, mood swings, and feelings of depression. You are irritable and have to deal with headaches associated with a lack of sleep.

• Impotence

  For snorers and those who suffer from sleep apnea, erectile dysfunction is more common. During sleep, the cessation of breathing (apneas) causes blood pressure to rise, which puts a strain on the vascular system. High blood pressure can suppress an interest in sex. Hormone levels and blood vessels are affected by the reduction in oxygen in the blood caused by sleep apnea.

• Medications

  A complication with medications and obstructive sleep apnea is also a concern with general anesthesia and certain medications. Prior to any surgery, it is important that you get tested for sleep apnea and you doctor is aware of you condition. People are prone to breathing issues when sedated and lying on their backs.

• Your partner

  Many partners of people who have sleep apnea and/or snore are sleep deprived. There are studies that link weight gain to the partners of those who have sleep apnea. It is common for a partner to have to sleep in another room in order to get a good night's sleep. Ask your partner if you keep them up at night!

• Other Issues 

  Another issue is nocturia, or the need to urinate frequently at night. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be more prevalent in people with sleep apnea. Children with untreated sleep apnea may be hyperactive and may be diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).