Sleep therapy from A to Zzzzz
There is a link between quality of sleep and your ability to properly function throughout the day. As we have all experienced, inadequate sleep often results in fatigue, irritability and a lack of focus. It is important to understand that lack of sleep can also result in long-term health consequences, including cardiovascular disease.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common form of diagnosed sleep disorders. OSA occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax, resulting in a narrowed or closed airway. When the body is no longer breathing, blood oxygen levels are significantly reduced which can result in damage to a person’s heart and blood vessels.
Studies show that OSA has a direct, hazardous effect on heart health.
Patients with untreated sleep apnea may be more likely to have:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Coronary artery disease
- Atrial fibrillation
- Congestive heart failure
- Sudden cardiac arrest
Many patients with OSA have higher blood pressures throughout the day, even when they are awake, leading to ongoing damage to their heart and arteries.
The Sleep Disorders Center at the Heart Hospital is an advanced institution that brings together leaders in sleep medicine and heart disease to help diagnose and treat these deadly and related diseases.
Obstructive sleep apnea is now recognized as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It is important that those who experience consistent inadequate sleep receive treatment to prevent the development and progression of heart disease and other chronic medical conditions."
Stanley Wang, MD, JD, MPH
Cardiologist, Austin Heart
Proper treatment of sleep disorders can not only improve quality of life, but also your cardiovascular health. For further information regarding the Sleep Disorders Center at Heart Hospital of Austin, call 512.407.REST (7378).
