What are potential complications of untreated sleep apnea?

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to a range of serious complications, primarily affecting cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Individuals suffering from sleep apnea experience repeated interruptions in their breathing during sleep, leading to drops in oxygen levels and fragmented sleep. Over time, this can cause cardiovascular issues, such as hypertension, heart failure, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Daytime fatigue is another significant concern; the frequent awakenings during the night result in poor sleep quality, causing excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue. This fatigue can impair cognitive function, resulting in diminished productivity and an increased risk of accidents, particularly motor vehicle accidents, due to decreased alertness.

The connection between sleep apnea and these complications highlights the importance of early diagnosis and management of the condition to prevent long-term health issues and improve quality of life.