When Snoring Becomes Scary: Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

In the dead of night, a mysterious sound awakens you in the dark. It repeats, warning you that your good night’s sleep is going to take a turn for the worse. But what could it be? It’s…snoring…caused by sleep apnea! Whether the snoring is coming from you or a loved one, the risks of untreated sleep apnea can be downright scary. Here’s what to know about the risks of sleep apnea so you can get the treatment you need for a better night’s sleep.

Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. While snoring is often the most noticeable symptom, the health risks of untreated sleep apnea go far beyond a noisy night. Unfortunately, many people live with undiagnosed or untreated sleep apnea, putting themselves at risk for a wide range of health problems. Addressing sleep apnea is critical for overall health and well-being, otherwise you could be at risk of:

• Fatigue and cognitive impairment. One of the most immediate consequences of untreated sleep apnea is poor quality of sleep. Each time breathing stops, the brain briefly wakes the body to restart breathing, preventing deep and restorative sleep. As a result, those with sleep apnea often feel exhausted during the day, which can lead to irritability, difficulty concentrating and a higher risk of accidents.
• Cardiovascular issues. Untreated sleep apnea also has long-term side effects. It can take a huge toll on the heart and blood vessels. When breathing pauses during sleep, the body temporarily lacks oxygen. This can lead to higher blood pressure as your heart overexerts itself to keep the oxygen flowing, which contributes to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and heart attacks over time. People with sleep apnea are more likely to suffer from heart failure and atrial fibrillation, a condition where the heart beats irregularly.
• Metabolic issues. There’s a strong link between sleep apnea and weight gain. Poor sleep disrupts the hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. Sleep apnea can also worsen conditions like type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin resistance. This creates a vicious cycle: weight gain worsens sleep apnea, and sleep apnea can make it harder to lose weight.
• Mental health impacts. Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect your body, it can also impact your mental health. Chronic sleep deprivation from untreated sleep apnea is linked to anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that people with sleep apnea are more likely to suffer from mood disorders, and untreated sleep apnea can worsen existing mental health conditions.
• A weak immune system. Less sleep weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. People with untreated sleep apnea may find themselves getting sick more often and taking longer to recover from common illnesses like colds or the flu.

The risks of untreated sleep apnea extend far beyond the inconvenience of poor sleep. The good news is that sleep apnea is treatable. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms such as loud snoring, daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your doctor. The sooner you get diagnosed, the sooner you can get treatment to protect your sleep and overall well-being.