The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea

The National Sleep Foundation estimates that roughly 18 million adults in the United States, which is 6% of our population, are affected by sleep apnea. It's an incredibly serious medical issue and can have damaging repercussions if not taken care of properly. In a previous blog post, we discussed . However, in this blog post, we will understand the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.

Five Health Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea:

There are certain dangers to having untreated sleep apnea in Cary , which is why it's important to receive proper care and treatment. Here are five potential health consequences:

High Blood Pressure:

One of untreated sleep apnea's most common health consequences is high blood pressure. When you stop breathing during sleep, your blood pressure rises. Over time, this can lead to hypertension, which puts you at risk for diseases like heart disease and stroke, etc. If you already have high blood pressure, sleep apnea can make it worse.

Heart Disease:

Sleep apnea is also a significant risk factor for heart disease. When you stop breathing during sleep, your heart has to work double the time to pump oxygenated blood to your brain and other organs. This puts a strain on your heart and can lead to arrhythmias, heart attacks, and strokes. Sleep apnea is also associated with an increased risk of congestive heart failure.

Diabetes:

Untreated sleep apnea can also lead to diabetes. When you have trouble breathing during sleep, your body responds by releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones raise your blood sugar levels and can lead to insulin resistance as well as type 2 diabetes.

Depression:

Depression is another common health consequence of untreated sleep apnea. When you don't get enough restful sleep, it takes a toll on your mental health. People with untreated sleep apnea are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.

Memory Problems:

Finally, untreated sleep apnea can also lead to memory problems along with headaches in Raleigh . When you don't get enough restful sleep, it affects your ability to focus and pay attention. People with untreated sleep apnea are likelier to experience forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making skills.

Conclusion:

As you can see, there are many serious health consequences of untreated sleep apnea. If you have sleep apnea, it's essential to see a doctor so that you can get treatment and avoid these serious complications. Dr. Charles Ferzli, a leading sleep apnea in Raleigh expert and a leading sleep specialist in Raleigh, North Carolina, specializes in treating patients with sleep apnea. He can provide you with the care and treatment you need for better restful sleep. Contact us at (919) 323-4000 today to schedule an appointment!