Sleep apnea is the most commonly diagnosed condition among sleep-related breathing disorders and can sometimes lead to fatal consequences for the 18 million Americans diagnosed with the disorder.  Obstructive sleep apnea decreases blood flow to the brain, elevates blood pressure within the brain and eventually harms the brain’s ability to adjust these changes to prevent damage to itself according to a new study published by the American Physiological Society. 

            During sleep apnea episodes, the upper airway becomes blocked, preventing or stopping breathing and causing blood oxygen level to drop and blood pressure to rise.  Ordinarily the brain regulates its blood flow to meet its own metabolic needs, even in the face of changes in blood pressure – a process known as cerebral autoregulation.  This study found that the repeated surges and drops in blood pressure and blood flow during numerous sleep apnea episodes each night reduces the brain’s ability to regulate these functions.  The findings may help explain why people with sleep apnea are more likely to suffer strokes and to die in their sleep. 

            Some people are not aware they have sleep apnea and the disorder may occur for a long period of time before seeking medical treatment.  Some symptoms of sleep apnea to watch out for include:

• Not feeling rested after 8 hours of sleep and feeling more tired during the day and requiring a nap
• You experience loud, habitual snoring that disturbs others
• Your bed partner observes pauses in your breathing

           If you think you may have sleep apnea, please consult your healthcare provider for referral to have a sleep study done.  WTMA’s Sleep Study Center offers a nice home environment for patients who don’t like the idea of being in the hospital.  Cable TV, water, and snacks are available and we also allow family members to accompany patients to make the process more comfortable. 

Download File: web.php