How does Sleep Apnea affect Blood Pressure?

Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Types

Sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder that results in poor sleep quality and can lead to daytime fatigue or sleepiness, forgetfulness, and irritability.  According to the Mayo Clinic, there are 3 types of sleep apnea to be aware of as follows:

• OSA or obstructive sleep apnea is the more common form of the disorder and affects roughly 30% of American adults as well as up to 5% children ranging from infants to teenagers.  OSA occurs when the muscles of the throat become too relaxed and block airflow into the lungs.
• CSA or central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to send the right signals to the muscles responsible for controlling our breathing.
• Complex or treatment-emergent sleep apnea occurs when an individual receives OSA therapy and the disorder converts to CSA.

Research has suggested that one of several health consequences of the condition is sleep apnea blood pressure-related issues.