Sleep apnea is more than a sleep problem. It can affect your whole body, including your heart. For many people, the signs begin at night with loud snoring, gasping, choking, or restless sleep. During the day, they may feel tired, foggy, or irritable. What many people do not realize is that untreated sleep apnea can also raise the risk of serious cardiovascular disease. At Maine Sleep Dentistry in Falmouth, ME, we want our patients to know the potential connection.
Obstructive sleep apnea happens when the airway becomes blocked during sleep. Breathing may stop and start many times each night. Each pause can lower oxygen levels and force the body into a stress response. The heart has to work harder, blood pressure can rise, and sleep quality drops. Over time, this repeated strain can affect heart health in major ways.
How Sleep Apnea Affects the Heart
Sleep apnea disrupts oxygen flow, causing increased blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and heightened risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications over time
Research has shown a strong link between sleep apnea and conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heart rhythms, stroke, and heart failure. When oxygen levels fall, the body releases stress hormones that can tighten blood vessels and increase inflammation. This cycle may contribute to damage in the cardiovascular system. People with untreated sleep apnea are often at greater risk for long-term health complications, especially if they also have other risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, family history, or smoking.
Dr. Kyra Chadbourne: Expertise in Dental Sleep Medicine
That is why proper diagnosis and treatment matter. At Maine Sleep Dentistry in Falmouth, ME, Dr. Kyra Chadbourne is committed to helping patients address sleep-disordered breathing with personalized care. Dr. Chadbourne expanded her knowledge in sleep apnea treatment by completing the Tufts Mini Residency program in dental sleep medicine at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. She has also completed the continuing education curriculum at the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Her passion for dental sleep medicine was sparked by recognizing the important health correlations between sleep-disordered breathing, genetics, and comorbidities.
The Importance of Professional Sleep Apnea Treatment
Professional treatment is important because sleep apnea is not a condition to ignore or self-diagnose. While lifestyle changes may help reduce symptoms, they are not a substitute for expert care. A professional evaluation can help identify the cause and severity of the problem. For many patients, oral appliance therapy may offer an effective, comfortable treatment option. These custom devices help keep the airway open during sleep and can improve breathing, reduce snoring, and support better rest.
Tips for Prevention and Reducing Your Risk
There are also steps you can take to support prevention and lower your risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, limiting alcohol before bed, avoiding smoking, and sleeping on your side may all help reduce airway collapse. It is also wise to pay attention to warning signs such as chronic snoring, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or witnessed pauses in breathing. Early action can make a real difference.
The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to more than poor sleep. It may contribute to ongoing exhaustion, reduced focus, mood changes, and a lower quality of life. More importantly, it can place lasting stress on the heart and blood vessels. Seeking professional care is an investment in both your sleep and your long-term health.
If you are concerned about sleep apnea, Maine Sleep Dentistry in Falmouth, ME contact us to see if we can help you take the next step toward healthier sleep and better heart health.