Have you ever wondered, “Does your heart stop if you have sleep apnea?”
It’s a scary thought, but an anxiety that’s easily managed with proactive sleep apnea treatment. It’s true that each untreated sleep apnea episode can put significant stress on your heart, affecting your long-term cardiovascular health. However, there are plenty of steps to take to work towards building better sleep and a healthier you.
Here are some key facts to take to heart when it comes to understanding sleep apnea and cardiovascular health.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Heart
Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, reducing oxygen levels in your blood. Each pause triggers your brain to briefly wake your body up to resume breathing, leading to a cycle of interrupted sleep and oxygen deprivation.
According to the American Heart Association, these repeated drops in oxygen levels can increase blood pressure, elevate heart rate, and contribute to inflammation in your blood vessels. Over time, this can strain your cardiovascular system and increase your risk for serious heart concerns.
Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
You may be asking, “What are the risks of untreated sleep apnea?” Studies show that untreated sleep apnea can increase your risk of high blood pressure, arrhythmias, stroke, and even sudden cardiac death. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic notes that people with untreated sleep apnea are at a higher risk for abnormal heart rhythms, especially during the night when oxygen levels drop repeatedly.
Over time, this added stress on your heart can contribute to the development of coronary artery disease and heart failure. Additionally, untreated sleep apnea may worsen existing heart conditions, making it harder for your heart to function efficiently.
Managing Sleep Apnea for a Healthier Heart
The good news is that treating sleep apnea can reduce your cardiovascular risks. Oral appliance therapy and CPAP therapy can help keep your airway open during sleep, reducing episodes of oxygen deprivation and helping your heart work with less strain.
If you or a loved one experiences loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or pauses in breathing during sleep, it’s important to seek evaluation. Sleep apnea treatment can not only improve your energy and quality of life but also protect your cardiovascular health in the long term.
Take steps today to protect your heart and improve your sleep.
About the Practice
At Warwick Dentistry, Joyce & John Warwick, DMD, offer compassionate, patient-centered care for a wide range of dental needs, including sleep apnea treatment. Our team uses modern technology and personalized care to help you achieve optimal health and a confident smile. We’re dedicated to helping you improve your sleep, protect your heart, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Schedule a consultation online or give us a call at (412) 391-1130 to achieve sounder sleep and better heart health.