Don’t Let Sleep Apnea in Jupiter Break Your Heart!

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In fact, it is responsible for nearly one in four deaths! Lots of factors, including age, gender, and diet, can play a role in whether you develop heart disease. But did you know that the quality of your sleep can also affect heart health? Since February is Heart Health Awareness Month, it is the perfect time to call attention to how sleep apnea in Jupiter can lead to serious ticker trouble.

Heart Problems and Sleep Apnea: A Strong Correlation

A report from the National Institutes of Health cited research estimating that “sleep apnea is probably responsible for 38,000 cardiovascular deaths yearly, with an associated 42 million dollars spent on related hospitalizations. Obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of heart failure by 140%, the risk of stroke by 60%, and the risk of coronary heart disease by 30%.”

One of the possible reasons behind the startling correlation between heart problems and sleep apnea is that sleep apnea increases blood pressure. It causes brief periods during the night when a person is not breathing. If you’re not breathing, the oxygen level in your blood decreases. The lower oxygen levels, in turn, motivate your brain to send signals to your blood vessels to “tighten up.” When the vessels constrict, it increases the flow of oxygen to the heart and brain. While that is an excellent short-term solution for low oxygen levels, the high blood pressure that results from it can contribute to heart attack and other serious cardiovascular problems.

Poor Quality Sleep Leads to Diminished Heart Health

As mentioned above, sleep apnea may have a direct impact on your heart health. But it may also have an indirect effect. People who do not get enough high-quality sleep tend to have more trouble managing their weight, have less energy to exercise, and have an increased appetite. All such factors can lead to poorer heart health.

A Healthier Heart Through Better Sleep

If you have sleep apnea, or even suspect you have it, it’s essential that you seek diagnosis and treatment. Something as simple as a custom-made oral appliance could help you breathe easier at night and enjoy unrestricted oxygen flow. After you begin treatment, you may find that your blood pressure improves. You might also discover that you have more energy and thus can put more effort into activities that strengthen your heart, such as exercise and eating a healthful diet.

How is your heart doing? Improving the quality of your shuteye via sleep apnea treatment could be the key to protecting this vital organ.

 About the Author

Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell has decades of experience in dentistry. He is also a highly qualified sleep medicine expert and a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. He has an intimate understanding of obstructive sleep apnea and is proud to provide innovative treatment solutions to patients in Jupiter and the surrounding areas. If you would like to learn how Dr. Mogell may be able to help you enjoy better rest, contact our team today.