If you have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea then you know that this problem brings with it a variety of symptoms and potentially long-term side effects. In fact, nightly interrupted sleep can even damage your health if you avoid sleep apnea treatment for too long. For example, patients are often surprised to learn that this sleep disorder may lead to high blood pressure, which subsequently places you at a greater risk for additional complications. Curious about the connection between your nightly sleep problem and your blood pressure? Allow us to provide you with some clarification with a quick Q&A session.
Q&A: Hypertension and Sleep Apnea
Question: What is high blood pressure?
Answer: High blood pressure, also known clinically as “hypertension” is a disorder in which your blood circulates with too much pressure against the walls of your arteries. It is considered “too much” because heightened force may lead to problems like a stroke or cardiac problems.
Question: What does sleep apnea have to do with high blood pressure?
Answer: When you stop breathing at night as a result of your sleep disorder, your blood and brain stop receiving oxygen. As a result, your system begins delivering blood throughout your body as fast as it can, so remaining oxygen reaches your brain. This rush is known as an increase in blood pressure.
Question: Can I lower my blood pressure by seeking sleep apnea treatment?
Answer: Sleep apnea treatment will certainly help because it stops your blood pressure from spiking each night. For individuals already suffering from high blood pressure, this may offer partial help for your problem. We also suggest seeking treatment for the hypertension itself from your physician.
