What Does Sleep Apnea Do to Your Body?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. It affects approximately 22 million Americans, and many more are undiagnosed. While snoring is one of the most recognizable symptoms, sleep apnea can have severe health consequences if left untreated. In this article, we will explore the effects of sleep apnea on the body and the importance of seeking treatment.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked, leading to disrupted breathing during sleep. It can cause pauses in breathing that last for several seconds or more, leading to a drop in oxygen levels in the body. There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and complex sleep apnea syndrome.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea and occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common and occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome (CSAS) is a combination of both OSA and CSA.

What Does Sleep Apnea Do to Your Body?

High Blood Pressure: Sleep apnea can cause repeated drops in blood oxygen levels, leading to an increase in blood pressure. This can put additional strain on the heart and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Heart Disease: Sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, including heart attacks, stroke, and atrial fibrillation. The repeated drops in oxygen levels and increased blood pressure can damage the heart over time.

Type 2 Diabetes: Sleep apnea has also been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The repeated drops in blood oxygen levels and increased inflammation in the body can impair glucose metabolism, leading to insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.

Weight Gain: Sleep apnea can also contribute to weight gain, as it disrupts normal sleep patterns and can lead to fatigue and a lack of energy for exercise. Additionally, the hormonal changes that occur with sleep apnea can increase hunger and cravings for high-calorie foods.

Daytime Fatigue: One of the most noticeable symptoms of sleep apnea is daytime fatigue and excessive sleepiness. This can affect performance at work or school, increase the risk of accidents, and impair overall quality of life.

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have severe health consequences if left untreated. The repeated drops in oxygen levels and increased blood pressure can damage the heart, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and contribute to weight gain. Additionally, the fatigue and excessive sleepiness that accompany sleep apnea can affect performance at work or school and impair overall quality of life. It's essential to seek treatment if you suspect you have sleep apnea. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and exercise, oral appliances, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. By seeking treatment for sleep apnea, you can improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of serious health complications.