I’m Dr. Benjamin Nager, a neurologist with Centegra Physician Care.
For many years, physicians and researchers have believed there is a link between heart disease and sleep apnea. In 2012, a study published in an American Heart Association journal showed moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea can cause changes in the heart’s shape and function. These changes are similar to the effects of high blood pressure.
Sleep apnea symptoms include loud snoring, daytime sleepiness and abrupt awakenings. Other people may notice that a person with sleep apnea appears to stop breathing while asleep.
People who have obstructive sleep apnea may experience an enlarged heart, the thickening of the heart wall and a reduction in the heart’s ability to pump. The good news is after treatment, patients can return to near-normal measurements.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, talk to your physician about sleep services available at Centegra Health System. For more information call 877-CENTEGRA.
Listen to Dr. Nager’s HealthBeat about sleep apnea and heart disease.