Sleep Apnoea Raises Heart Attack and Stroke Risk by 71% in UK

Millions in the UK with sleep apnoea face a 71% higher risk of heart attacks and strokes, a risk significantly higher than those without the condition.
By Newsroom | Health, United Kingdom |

The Stark Reality of Breathing Disruptions

New research suggests a significant link between obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a prevalent sleep disorder affecting millions in Britain, and a markedly elevated risk of severe health outcomes. Individuals diagnosed with OSA face a 71 percent higher risk of experiencing heart attacks, strokes, and even death compared to those without the condition. This heightened vulnerability extends to an increased likelihood of developing high blood pressure and other heart-related ailments.

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The ramifications of untreated OSA are far-reaching. Beyond the immediate cardiovascular threats, studies indicate a correlation with a greater propensity to develop a spectrum of other health issues. These include obesity, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and anxiety, painting a grim picture of the systemic impact of disrupted sleep.

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Snoring as a Red Flag

OSA, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often manifests through loud, persistent snoring. This occurs as the walls of the throat narrow, obstructing airflow. Other noticeable signs include frequent awakenings, and vocalizations like gasping, snorting, or choking noises during slumber. Drooling during sleep is also a commonly observed symptom, as individuals may resort to mouth breathing to compensate for airway obstruction.

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Warning as devastating sleep condition affecting millions of Britons is linked to 71 per cent higher risk of heart attacks, stroke and death - 3

Potential Cognitive Decline and Therapeutic Avenues

Emerging evidence points towards a concerning association between OSA and cognitive impairment, including a heightened risk of dementia. Preliminary human trials are reportedly underway in Brisbane and Sydney to investigate the correlation between hypoxia—a lack of oxygen stemming from breathing difficulties—and sustained cognitive decline. These studies aim to determine if CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy, a common treatment for OSA that keeps airways open with pressurized air, can mitigate this risk. Experts strongly advocate for the use of CPAP machines by individuals with OSA to support cognitive function and address associated health challenges.

Warning as devastating sleep condition affecting millions of Britons is linked to 71 per cent higher risk of heart attacks, stroke and death - 4

A Condition Often Overlooked

Despite its widespread impact and serious health implications, OSA frequently goes undiagnosed. The cumulative effect of these breathing pauses and the resulting physiological stress place a considerable burden on the body, contributing to the array of health problems observed. The condition’s insidious nature, occurring predominantly during sleep, can make its symptoms subtle and easily dismissed, leaving a vast number of people unknowingly at risk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What new health risks are linked to sleep apnoea in the UK?
New research shows that people with sleep apnoea in the UK have a 71 percent higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death. They are also more likely to get high blood pressure and other heart problems.
Q: What are the common signs of sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea causes breathing to stop many times during sleep. Signs include loud snoring, waking up often, gasping or choking sounds, and breathing through the mouth, sometimes with drooling.
Q: Can sleep apnoea affect thinking and memory?
Yes, there is a link between sleep apnoea and problems with thinking, including a higher risk of dementia. Studies are looking into whether CPAP treatment can help protect the brain.
Q: Why is sleep apnoea often not found?
Sleep apnoea happens when you sleep, so its signs can be mild or easy to miss. Many people do not know they have it, even though it puts a lot of stress on the body and can cause many health issues.
Q: What is the main treatment for sleep apnoea?
The main treatment is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy. This machine uses air pressure to keep the airways open during sleep, helping breathing and potentially protecting brain health.