How Does Obstructive Sleep Apnea Affect the Heart?
OSA affects cardiovascular health through several mechanisms:
- Intermittent Hypoxia: Repeated episodes of low oxygen levels can lead to systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which contribute to cardiovascular disease. - Sympathetic Nervous System Activation: OSA episodes trigger a "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which over time can lead to hypertension and other cardiovascular issues. - Increased Blood Pressure: The frequent arousals and apneas in OSA lead to nocturnal hypertension, which often persists during the daytime. - Atrial Fibrillation: OSA is a significant risk factor for atrial fibrillation, a common cardiac arrhythmia.
