Sleep apnea threats to your health.
People with this condition often snore and experience brief pauses in breathing throughout the night. Some might gasp for air, while others breathe so softly you’d think they’re sleeping peacefully. But their sleep quality is seriously compromised. If you’re constantly battling unexplained morning headaches or fighting to keep your eyes open during the day, it’s time to consider sleep apnea as a potential culprit.
Sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway does not open properly while sleeping. This is especially common if you’re carrying extra weight, enjoy a nightcap before bed, smoke, or are stressed. These factors can weaken your airway muscles, making them more likely to throw in the towel when you lie down. Long periods of sitting put people at risk as well. Long periods of sitting cause fluid to build up in your legs, which then travels to your upper body when you lie down, narrowing your airway.
When you’re struggling to breathe all night, your body goes into panic mode, pumping out stress hormones like cortisol. This triggers a domino effect of health issues. Your body starts producing an excess of reactive oxygen species, which team up with the cholesterol (LDL) to wreak havoc on your blood vessels. Your blood vessel walls thicken up, paving the way for serious cardiovascular problems. We’re talking about increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and even premature death. As if that weren’t enough, your brain gets in on the action too. All those reactive oxygen species can accumulate upstairs, potentially messing with your memory and cognitive abilities.
If you’re nodding along to these symptoms, it’s time to take action. Book an appointment with your doctor for a sleep study, also known as polysomnography. If the test confirms your suspicions, don’t worry – there are solutions. One popular treatment is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. You’ll wear a mask that gently blows air into your airway while you sleep, keeping it open and allowing you to breathe easily. For those carrying extra weight, shedding a few pounds could make a difference. Not only will you feel better overall, but you might improve those sleep apnea symptoms.
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