Sleep apnea is often associated with loud snoring and daytime fatigue, but its impact on health can extend far beyond these well-known symptoms. There are lesser-known ways that sleep apnea might be affecting your health without you realizing it. Here are some signs and symptoms that could be linked to sleep apnea:
1. Polycythemia
Polycythemia is a condition involving persistently elevated red blood cells. Frequent drops in oxygen during sleep apnea prompt your body to produce more red blood cells to enhance oxygen transport. This results in increased levels of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) and hematocrit (the percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells), which are commonly elevated in sleep apnea patients.
2. Increased Inflammation
Markers of inflammation such as C-reactive protein (a protein that increases in response to inflammation), interleukin-6 (a cytokine involved in inflammatory responses), and fibrinogen (a protein in the blood that helps with clotting) tend to be higher in individuals with sleep apnea. These elevated levels provide insights into the body’s inflammatory processes.
3. High Blood Glucose
High blood glucose, or blood sugar, is a significant concern for those with sleep apnea and often coexists with diabetes. Managing both conditions is crucial for overall health.
4. Morning Headaches
Morning headaches can result from low oxygen levels (hypoxia) and high carbon dioxide levels (hypercapnia) during sleep, which dilate blood vessels in the brain. These headaches are frequently mistaken for caffeine withdrawal or sinus issues
5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach acids flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation. Sleep apnea increases intra-abdominal pressure, pushing acids upward and exacerbating GERD symptoms.
6. Erectile Dysfunction
Low oxygen levels impair blood vessel function, reducing their ability to expand properly. This contributes to erectile dysfunction, which can significantly impact sexual performance in men.
7. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Bruxism refers to teeth grinding during sleep, often observed in individuals with sleep apnea as they attempt to reposition their jaw to improve breathing.
8. Floppy Eyelid Syndrome
Floppy Eyelid Syndrome involves loose, rubbery eyelids that can easily turn outward. This condition is associated with sleep apnea due to mechanical and inflammatory factors affecting the eyes.
9. Nocturia
Nocturia is the frequent need to urinate during the night, often improved with effective treatment of sleep apnea.
10. Hypertension
Persistent high blood pressure that does not respond well to treatment may be indicative of underlying sleep apnea. Regular monitoring and management are essential
Recognizing these signs and symptoms can lead to early detection and treatment of sleep apnea. If you experience any of these issues, particularly if you snore loudly and wake up feeling unrested, consult your doctor for further evaluation. Effective treatments are available to help improve sleep quality and overall health.