What is a potential consequence of untreated obstructive sleep apnea?

Untreated obstructive sleep apnea can lead to several significant health issues, with hypertension being one of the most critical consequences. Obstructive sleep apnea causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can lead to drops in oxygen levels. This often triggers the body’s stress response, increasing blood pressure during sleep and potentially contributing to persistent hypertension.

The relationship between sleep apnea and hypertension is well-established; as individuals experience fragmented sleep and recurrent oxygen deprivation, their cardiovascular system can be strained, resulting in elevated blood pressure levels. Over time, this sustained high blood pressure can increase the risk of more severe cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke.

In contrast, increased daytime alertness, enhanced cognitive function, and improved sleep quality are generally outcomes associated with effectively treated sleep apnea, not untreated cases. Individuals suffering from untreated obstructive sleep apnea typically experience excessive daytime sleepiness, cognitive difficulties, and poor sleep quality due to frequent arousals and disrupted sleep cycles. Hence, hypertension stands out as a direct and detrimental consequence of untreated obstructive sleep apnea.