Consequences of Sleep Apnea – Tulsa, OK
The Impact of Sleep Apnea Extends Beyond Sleepless Nights
Understanding the significance of both quantity and quality of sleep has become increasingly important, with recent studies revealing profound impacts on overall health. For instance, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to a tripling of the risk of premature death, highlighting its seriousness. At Healthy Sleep Tulsa, we’re committed to raising awareness about sleep apnea's consequences and offering effective treatments to enhance general well-being. To learn more, simply keep reading or give us a call today!
Mental Health
We're all familiar with how lack of sleep affects small children. Similarly, adults suffer from mental and emotional problems like depression, irritability, anxiety, anger, and daytime confusion when they don't get enough quality sleep. Sleep apnea is particularly concerning as it can lead to memory loss across all age groups, as uninterrupted breathing interruptions prevent the formation of vital memories during deep sleep stages.
Digestive Health
Sleep apnea can worsen acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), intensifying heartburn and disrupting sleep even more. Additionally, though not commonly associated with digestion, the liver plays a vital role in processing fats and nutrients. Patients with untreated sleep apnea in Tulsa have a higher risk of developing fatty liver disease, experiencing abnormal levels of liver enzymes, and developing liver scarring.
Immunity
During sleep, your immune system works tirelessly to maintain your health. However, sleep apnea interrupts this crucial process, potentially resulting in more frequent colds, infections, and other illnesses.
Insulin Levels, Diabetes, and Metabolic Syndrome
Sleep apnea increases the risk of insulin resistance, a major factor in diabetes. For those already diagnosed, untreated sleep apnea complicates glucose level management. Additionally, it raises the likelihood of metabolic syndrome, which includes risk factors like high blood sugar, blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and waist circumference concerns.
Respiratory System
Sleep apnea not only causes breathing issues during sleep, but also raises the likelihood of complications linked to adult asthma.
Bodyweight
Sleep apnea substantially increases the risk of obesity, placing strain on the entire body and intensifying pressure on the heart.
Cardiac Health
Sleep apnea affects heart health in multiple ways, including alterations in cholesterol levels, difficulty maintaining healthy blood pressure, and increased risk of abnormal heart rhythm, which also increases the risk of stroke.