Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is characterized by the repeated narrowing or collapse of the upper airway during sleep which restricts or prevents breathing for at least 10 seconds.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can significantly increase your risk for:
Elevated blood pressure triggered by episodes of apnea has been considered the major reason for the serious cardiovascular consequences of untreated OSA. However, newer information suggests that OSA is associated with an increase in the amount of inflammatory cells and chemicals in the blood stream. Inflammation in the lining of blood vessels plays a role in atherosclerosis, the blockage of arteries.
Research also has shown an association between OSA and increased blood levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine, substances that raise blood pressure and impact inflammation.
Obstructive sleep apnea is also associated with an increased risk for accidents because of excessive daytime sleepiness.
