Understanding the Dangers of Sleep Apnea when Left Untreated in Highland, MI

Many individuals who suffer from sleep apnea are not even aware they have it. Maybe a significant other has mentioned loud snoring or the fact that you have moments where they no longer hear you breathing as you sleep. If so, then you are exhibiting symptoms of sleep apnea. It may not wake you up, but it has been shown that those who suffer from sleep apnea are not getting a night of good, deep sleep. There are several effects sleep apnea can have on your health when left untreated. Let us take a look at a few.

Hypertension

Hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs when blood moves through your veins at high pressure. Those who have sleep apnea are taking in a significantly smaller amount of oxygen than they should, and, because of this, the body is unable to repair and rebuild tissues and cells as it should. Your body should be circulating more oxygen (not less) during this time and, because of this, the risk of hypertension is increased. This could lead to significant cardiovascular issues, including stroke and heart failure.

Diabetes

When your body is unable to get the deep sleep it needs, you may experience large hormone imbalances. This includes the production of insulin, which is needed to turn sugars into energy. When your body is unable to produce insulin at the levels necessary, you run the risk of developing diabetes.

Depression

Again, we will mention the negative side effects of a hormone imbalance caused by a lack of deep sleep. It has been found that a hormone imbalance can lead to mental health issues, including depression. Hormones including, cortisol and testosterone, are major factors in the way we feel each day and, when they become imbalanced due to lack of deep sleep or oxygen deprivation, the risk of depression becomes significantly higher.