Sleep & Heart Disease

Are you concerned about the effects sleep apnea has on your overall health?

Studies show that untreated sleep apnea can be linked to heart disease. That’s because the airway of a person who suffers from untreated sleep apnea and snoring temporarily collapses, which restricts or stops the flow of air into the lungs. When that happens, blood oxygen levels drop rapidly and the brain sends a signal to wake you up.

This can happen many times every night, causing strain on your heart and changes in your blood pressure and heart rate. When these repetitive strikes on your cardiovascular system happen on a continual basis, your sleep health suffers. You are also at risk for hypertension, coronary artery disease, stroke, and congestive heart failure.

Good news about heart health and sleep apnea

If you are experiencing untreated sleep apnea and snoring and are concerned about heart disease, it’s time to consult a physician. Sleep health treatment for sleep apnea can improve hypertension and reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. 

Studies show that patients who use Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy for obstructive sleep apnea have fewer heart disease complications. Using CPAP therapy can reduce or even eliminate your need for hypertension medications.

Return to Sleep Disorders

If you are concerned about your sleep health, visit our appointments page to setup a meeting with one of our board-certified sleep specialists.