Fact 2: Cardiovascular Complications – More Than Just a Flutter
When we delve into the health implications of sleep apnea, one domain stands out: cardiovascular health. The link between sleep apnea and heart conditions is alarmingly strong, and understanding this connection is essential.
The repetitive interruptions in breathing that characterize sleep apnea cause a drop in blood oxygen levels. This, in turn, strains the cardiovascular system, making the heart work overtime to compensate. It can lead to increased blood pressure, a serious concern in its own right.
Moreover, these interruptions can also cause the body to experience brief moments of increased stress, which can elevate heart rate. Over time, this constant strain can weaken the heart, making it more susceptible to various conditions.
Conditions like arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats are commonly seen in individuals with untreated sleep apnea. The risk of heart attack also escalates, primarily because sleep apnea can lead to atherosclerosis, where the arteries harden and become narrow. Conclusively, while the flutter of an irregular heartbeat might seem minor, it’s a telltale sign of something far graver lurking beneath. (2)
