February is American Heart Month, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease – the leading cause of death in the US – and encouraging preventive, heart-healthy habits. This month, we’re highlighting a critical but often overlooked connection: sleep apnea and heart health.
While many associate sleep apnea with snoring and fatigue, its effects on your cardiovascular system can be serious and far-reaching.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from seconds to over a minute and may occur hundreds of times per night. In obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common type, relaxed throat muscles block the airway.
The Sleep Apnea-Heart Health Connection
When breathing stops during sleep, your body experiences changes that directly stress your cardiovascular system:
Oxygen Deprivation: Each pause drops blood oxygen levels, triggering a stress response that forces your heart to work harder. Over time, this repeated strain damages the heart and blood vessels.
Blood Pressure Spikes: The body’s fight-or-flight response causes sudden blood pressure surges during each event. These repeated spikes can lead to sustained hypertension – approximately 50% of people with sleep apnea also have high blood pressure.
Irregular Heart Rhythms: Sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation. People with untreated sleep apnea are four times more likely to develop AFib.
Increased Risk of Heart Disease: People with untreated moderate to severe sleep apnea face a 2-to 3-times higher risk of coronary artery disease, plus an increased likelihood of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke.
Warning Signs
Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. If you have these symptoms along with risk factors like obesity or a family history of sleep apnea, seek evaluation.
Taking the Next Step
If you suspect sleep apnea, especially if you have existing heart conditions or cardiovascular risk factors, getting diagnosed should be a priority. The team at ENTOne is available to answer any questions you may have about the health of your ears, nose, and throat. Contact ENTOne to schedule an appointment.
Disclaimer: This is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. All advice and suggestions offered via the website or newsletters should be discussed with a physician before implementation. Always consult a physician for specific guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. SurgOne, PC, and ENTOne PC are not liable for any adverse reactions that may occur by implementing advice or suggestions that appear here.
