Many people suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), yet most cases remain undiagnosed. If you experience chronic snoring or interruptions in your breathing during sleep, it could indicate a sleep disorder. Seeking professional help for diagnosis and treatment is crucial, as untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems and diminished quality of life. Continue reading to learn about the potential risks of untreated sleep apnea.
Chronic Health Conditions
Addressing sleep apnea can significantly improve – and sometimes even resolve – certain chronic health issues. However, leaving the condition untreated can worsen the following problems:
- High Blood Pressure: If you already have hypertension, sleep apnea can worsen it. Frequent sleep disruptions cause stress on the body, leading to increased blood pressure.
- Heart Disease: Sleep apnea elevates the risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks. Low oxygen levels caused by the disorder affect blood flow regulation, straining the heart and increasing vulnerability to heart-related issues.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Sleep apnea and obesity often coexist, and both are linked to type 2 diabetes. While research hasn’t confirmed a direct cause-and-effect relationship, poor sleep disrupts the body’s ability to manage insulin effectively, raising the risk of diabetes.
Cognitive Decline and Memory Loss
Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect physical health – it can also impair brain function. Research published in Neurology in 2014 revealed that men with sleep apnea had higher rates of microinfarcts (tiny strokes) and brain atrophy, both of which are associated with dementia. While sleep apnea itself may not directly cause dementia, the cognitive effects can mimic early signs of memory loss and concentration difficulties. Fortunately, many individuals experience significant cognitive improvements after beginning treatment.
Increased Cancer Risk
Emerging research suggests a link between sleep apnea and certain types of cancer. A study from the National Library of Medicine found that individuals with sleep apnea were more likely to have melanoma, as well as pancreatic or kidney cancer. While the disorder doesn’t appear to increase the risk of breast or prostate cancer, it may play a role in promoting cancer development overall. Encouragingly, there’s no evidence that sleep apnea raises the likelihood of dying from cancer.
If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, don’t wait to seek help. A proper diagnosis can pave the way to effective treatment, allowing you to enjoy restful nights and improved overall health. Left untreated, sleep apnea can take a significant toll on your body and mind, but the right care can help you reclaim your quality of life!
About the Practice
Downtown Denver Sleep Solutions is dedicated to serving Denver and surrounding communities for years, providing effective sleep apnea treatments to help patients achieve quality rest. If you have any questions about our solutions, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can book an appointment online via our website or call (720) 903-1649 for more information and assistance.