The Link Between Sleep Apnea and a Low Heart Rate

May 25, 2022
Chest of man with sleep apnea and low heart rate

There is no question that the heart is one of the most vital parts of the human body. Unfortunately, heart problems are a leading cause of death in the United States. It is important that you do everything you can to protect this precious muscle! Let’s talk about how the quality of your sleep is linked to heart health. Specifically, we’ll discuss the connection between sleep apnea and a low heart rate.

Sleep Apnea and Heart Conditions

Sleep apnea in Melbourne is a disorder defined by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. It interferes with the sleep cycle, places stress on the body, and results in lower blood oxygen levels. In turn, these issues can adversely affect the heart.

Research has established a correlation between sleep apnea and numerous heart and circulatory problems. For example, it is often associated with high blood pressure, as well as an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. A low heart rate is yet another problem that can arise in people who suffer from sleep apnea.

The Dangers of a Low Heart Rate

For most adults, a normal resting heart rate is considered to be between 60 and 100 beats per minute. Of course, this can vary by individual. For example, it is perfectly fine for well-conditioned athletes to have a resting heart rate of 30 – 40 beats per minute because their hearts and stronger and more efficient than those of less active individuals.

A low heart rate (formally known as bradycardia) is only a problem when it causes your brain and other organs not to get enough oxygen. Some symptoms of bradycardia include:

  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion and memory problems
  • The tendency to get worn out quickly during physical tasks
  • Fatigue
  • Fainting (or near-fainting)
  • Shortness of breath

How Sleep Apnea Treatment Can Help

Many patients with heart problems have found that their condition improves after they have been using sleep apnea treatment for a while. Addressing sleep apnea usually involves the use of devices that prevent airway blockage at night, thus allowing a person to enjoy uninterrupted sleep.

One popular sleep apnea device is an oral sleep appliance, which gently shifts the jaw forward at night to prevent tissues in the throat from interfering with the free flow of oxygen. Such devices are portable, easy to use, and relatively comfortable.

If you have symptoms of bradycardia, and you suspect that the quality of your sleep is to blame, you should seek to arrange a sleep apnea test as soon as possible. After you receive an official diagnosis, you can learn more about your treatment options, and hopefully, reverse your bradycardia.

Meet the Sleep Apnea Expert

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is a double-board certified dental sleep medicine expert. He specializes in helping patients overcome sleep apnea via oral appliance therapy. If you suspect that the quality of your sleep is not what it should be, he can help you arrange for appropriate testing and treatment. To learn more about him and how he may be able to assist you, contact any of our convenient locations or call us at 321-313-5350.