May is Hypertension Month – we are looking at how untreated sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure. Read on to learn more about how these two common conditions are connected!
Most medical experts agree that there is a strong link between sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Hypertension Canada states that untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, along with, heart attack, stroke, and obesity.
Associated health risks of unregulated high blood pressure:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Dementia
- Kidney (renal) disease
- Eye problems (retinopathy)
- Erectile dysfunction
High blood pressure isn’t uncommon. Therefore, checking your blood pressure regularly and speaking with your doctor or health care provider to determine the best way to control your high blood pressure is recommended.
Your doctor may suggest a test called 24 Blood Pressure Monitoring, this is a service that Snore MD now offers at selected clinics throughout BC!
How does untreated sleep apnea factor into high blood pressure?
- Studies have shown that sleep apnea is an independent risk factor for hypertension.
- 83% of patients with hypertension have sleep apnea
- 43% of patients with mild OSA and 69% of patients with severe OSA have hypertension
- AHA (American Heart Association) guidelines on drug-resistant hypertension have shown treatment of sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) likely to improve blood pressure control.
- If you suffer from hypertension speak to your doctor or reach out to Snore MD regarding a free home sleep test. Your Snore MD Sleep Clinician will be with you every step of the way. Start your journey towards better sleep and better health. Contact your closest Snore MD clinic today for more information on how we can help!
