Sleep apnea and heart health: Here's how poor sleep puts strain on your heart

Sleep apnea is closely related to coronary artery disease, as it can put strain on the heart and blood vessels, contributing to the buildup of plaques (Image: Canva)

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder marked by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. It is a common yet often overlooked condition. The most prevalent form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively during sleep, leading to blocked airways and interrupted breathing.

When sleep apnea occurs, breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor oxygenation and increased strain on the heart, says Dr Rajiv Passey, Co-Director, Cath Lab Cardiology sir Ganga ram hospital. “The symptoms include, loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches. Understanding these signs is important as it serves as the first step toward seeking a proper diagnosis and effective treatment,” he adds.

Also read | Snoring and sleep apnea: Difference between the two, symptoms, causes, treatment options

Dr Passey lists the following risks of sleep apnea:

• Cardiovascular risks of sleep apnea: Recurrent episodes of poor oxygenation during apnea, along with the overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system and chronic inflammation, can contribute to various cardiovascular diseases. Numerous studies have shown a significant connection between sleep apnea and these cardiovascular issues.

• Hypertension: Sleep apnea is a significant contributor to hypertension, and when left untreated, it can increase the risk of resistant hypertension.

• Heart arrhythmias: Sleep apnea increases risk of developing arrhythmia, particularly atrial fibrillation. Additionally, it increases the likelihood of sudden cardiac death associated with specific arrhythmias.

• Heart failure: Chronic sleep apnea is linked to a heightened risk of developing de novo heart failure or exacerbating preexisting heart failure.

• Coronary artery disease: Sleep apnea is closely related to coronary artery disease, as it can put strain on the heart and blood vessels, contributing to the buildup of plaques. This process leads to the narrowing or blockage of arteries.

Diagnosis and treatment:

To diagnose sleep apnea, a sleep study is conducted either at home or in a sleep clinic. Making positive lifestyle changes is essential for treating the symptoms. This includes incorporating regular exercise, losing weight, and avoiding alcohol altogether. Other treatment options include CPAP therapy, oral appliances, and, in severe cases, surgery to remove tissue blocking the airway.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.