How Sleep Apnea and Hypertension Are Connected

If you’re struggling with persistent fatigue, restless nights, and high blood pressure, you might not realize these issues could be connected. Sleep apnea and hypertension (high blood pressure) are two common health problems that often go hand-in-hand. By understanding how they’re linked, you can take the right steps to improve your sleep and your heart health.

Dr. Roberta Garceau, our skilled Windsor, CT sleep apnea dentist serving the surrounding areas, will help you understand the connection and how addressing sleep apnea can lead to better overall well-being. If you’re in Windsor, Bloomfield, East Windsor, Hartford or nearby areas, learn more about the connection between sleep apnea and hypertension by calling (860) 254-6189. 

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. This can cause the heart to work harder than normal and can lead to damage to the blood vessels over time.

Blood pressure is measured in two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.
• Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats.

A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is generally diagnosed when the blood pressure consistently reads at or above 130/80 mmHg.

There are two types of hypertension:

1. Primary (essential) hypertension: This is the most common type and develops gradually over many years, with no specific cause.
2. Secondary hypertension: This type is caused by an underlying condition, such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications.

Hypertension often has no obvious symptoms, which is why it’s known as a “silent” condition. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes (such as a healthy diet, exercise, and medication) can help manage hypertension.

How Sleep Apnea Contributes to Hypertension

The relationship between sleep apnea and hypertension is rooted in the body’s response to interrupted sleep and reduced oxygen levels. When you experience an apnea event, your body temporarily stops breathing, which causes oxygen levels in the blood to drop. This triggers a stress response, leading to the release of stress hormones like adrenaline. These hormones can cause your blood pressure to spike, and when this happens repeatedly throughout the night, it can lead to chronic high blood pressure (hypertension).

Repeated Oxygen Deprivation

When oxygen levels dip during sleep, the body’s stress response is activated, causing the blood vessels to constrict, increasing heart rate, and raising blood pressure. This cycle of blood pressure spikes during sleep is what contributes to long-term hypertension.

Interrupted Sleep and Increased Stress

Lack of quality sleep due to frequent apnea events can also cause the body’s stress response to remain heightened throughout the day, making it more difficult to manage blood pressure effectively. Additionally, people with untreated sleep apnea may experience poor quality sleep, which can lead to tiredness, stress, and further elevations in blood pressure.

Steps You Can Take to Manage Sleep Apnea and Hypertension

Both sleep apnea and hypertension are manageable with the right treatment plan. If you’re struggling with sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, consider the following steps:

• Seek a Diagnosis – Consult your WIndsor sleep dentist to get a sleep study (polysomnography) to diagnose sleep apnea. A sleep study will help determine the severity of your condition.
• Use a CPAP Machine – For moderate to severe cases of sleep apnea, a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is often recommended. This device delivers a constant stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep.
• Lifestyle Changes – Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and smoking can improve both sleep apnea and hypertension.
• Oral Appliances – As mentioned, oral appliances can help reposition the jaw and keep the airway open. These devices are ideal for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.
• Monitor Your Blood Pressure – Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial for people with sleep apnea. If you have hypertension, working with your doctor to keep it under control is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Breathe Easy, Live Healthy

Sleep apnea and hypertension are more connected than you might think, but help is within reach. By addressing sleep apnea, you can protect your heart, enjoy restful nights, and improve your overall well-being.

Don’t let sleep apnea hold you back—schedule an appointment by calling (860) 254-6189 to start your journey toward better health today.