Long-Term Health Effects Of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

By Charu Sabharwal, MD, DABSM

Comprehensive Sleep Care Center

. https://comprehensivesleepcare.com/

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Long-Term Health Effects Of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition characterized by repeated episodes of upper airway closure during sleep. It usually presents with loud and disruptive snoring, associated with unrefreshing sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness. Because the breathing disturbances occur at night, but the consequences are reflected in impairment of daytime function, OSA may be difficult to diagnose. Combine this with the slowly progressive course of the disease, and patients with OSA often present to their doctor with either impaired daytime performance or as a result of the complications of sleep apnea.

The most crucial long-term health effects of OSA are vascular complications, metabolic syndrome, and increased risk of auto and industrial accidents. Epidemiological studies have indicated that untreated OSA causes chronic elevation in blood pressure. During sleep, the breathing disturbances associated with OSA decrease oxygen and increase carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This causes a transient rise in blood pressure, which over time becomes more sustained. Chronic oxygen deprivation during sleep can also lead to atherosclerosis and plaque formation, faster heart rates, and increased blood coagulation. Over time, OSA exposes an individual to a higher probably of developing arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, or stroke.

Several large population studies have also found a strong correlation between OSA and type 2 diabetes. The frequent oxygen deprivation during sleep causes recurrent arousals, which over time leads to the release of inflammatory cytokines that can lead to the development of glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and, ultimately, type 2 diabetes. Additionally, OSA can cause a rise in leptin, the appetite-suppressing hormone. Taken together, these insidious effects place an individual at a higher risk of developing obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Lastly, OSA can cause not only increased mortality due to fatal cardiovascular events, but also serious injury on the road and in the workplace due to excessive daytime sleepiness. Multiple studies have shown that the accident rate for OSA patients is approximately seven times that of the general population.

Fortunately, OSA responds well to treatment, especially to Constant Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). CPAP can decrease the mortality rate, reduce the frequency of cardiovascular events, and improve glucose control. Weight loss, dental appliance, or oral surgery may also be effective in controlling a person's OSA. For more information about OSA and to obtain an individualized treatment plan from a board certified sleep medicine physician, please contact Comprehensive Sleep Care Center.