Resources
Learn about Sleep Apnea & Associated Health Risks
Resources
Learn about sleep apnea & associated health risks
Cardiac Disease
While it is commonly known that obstructive sleep apnea is linked to hypertension, the disorder can have a far more destructive impact on the heart and cardiovascular system. Here are some common OSA stats regarding heart issues:
- OSA is leading cause of secondary hypertension
- Patients at 30% higher risk of heart attack or premature death
- Increases chance of congestive heart failure
- Patients are four times as likely to have atrial fibrillation
Stroke
Sleep apnea can become the catalyst for first time or recurrent strokes if left untreated. High blood pressure and lack of oxygen flow to the brain can lead to some devastating results:
- Men with OSA nearly 3 times more likely to suffer a stroke
- Increased risk of hypertension and atrial fibrillation, main risk factors for stroke
Sexual Dysfunction
Men with undiagnosed and untreated obstructive sleep apnea are far more likely to experience issues with their sexual health. Erectile dysfunction, another disorder often left out of the conversation, can be one of many warning signs for OSA:
- Increased chance of erectile dysfunction
- Lower testosterone levels
- Decreased libido
- Higher chance of impotence