Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is one of the most common sleep-related breathing disorders today. It is a condition with serious health implications. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a risk factor for stroke.

This condition, characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep due to partial or complete airway obstructions, not only diminishes the quality of sleep but also increases the risk of high blood pressure. It can also lead to arrhythmias and other types of heart disease, such as coronary artery disease or stroke.

Physiologically, lack of sleep puts a strain on the heart, and OSA, in particular, causes overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system, which can lead to high blood pressure. This system triggers a series of temporary physical reactions, such as rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, and increased metabolism. All of these changes help us respond to stressful events. However, excessive activation of the sympathetic nervous system can lead to chronic high blood pressure.

Therefore, every time a person with OSA experiences airway collapse and briefly stops breathing during sleep, their sympathetic nervous system is activated, and blood pressure rapidly skyrockets. But if that weren't enough, when a person wakes up after an episode of OSA, the sympathetic nervous system activation and blood pressure levels rise even further. Furthermore, when OSA symptoms disrupt sleep, the body releases stress hormones called catecholamines into the blood. Catecholamines include dopamine and epinephrine (also called adrenaline). High levels of stress cause high blood pressure and place excessive strain on the cardiovascular system every day, which can lead to strokes, heart disease, and other conditions.

Therefore, promptly addressing OSA symptoms is a responsible way to take care of the health of our cardiovascular system, preventing our lives from being put at risk by the effects of a sustained and frequent increase in blood pressure.

If you experience symptoms of OSA, I advise you to see a specialist so we can help you take care of your sleep, and especially your heart and your life. Preventing OSA early will protect your personal and professional well-being.

Sources:

- https://www.sleepfoundation.or...
- https://www.elespanol.com/quin...