However, what you may not know is that snoring might be a sign of a serious underlying condition called Sleep Apnea that can sometimes lead to life-threatening diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. These co-morbidities also put us at a higher risk of contracting the coronavirus infection due to the impact diabetes and heart disease have on our immune system.
Why is snoring such a serious thing?
The actual problem is not that you snore, it is the reason why you snore that is important. Obstructive Sleep Apnea or OSA is a relatively common but often undiagnosed condition that results in pauses in breathing several times a night while you sleep. Sleep apnea may lead to serious and life-threatening conditions like obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, stroke and myocardial infarction.
So, do I have hypertension if I snore?
You just might. Studies have showcased that one in four people suffering from sleep apnea are at a very high risk of being hypertensive. However, when sleep apnea was addressed in these patients, it resulted in a dramatic drop in blood pressure levels.
How can I address this condition? Do I need medication or surgery?
Fortunately, no. Sleep apnea can easily be diagnosed with a non-invasive, painless test called a sleep study and the condition can be addressed with CPAP Therapy.
What is CPAP therapy? How will it help with hypertension?
CPAP, or constant positive airway pressure therapy addresses the pauses in your breathing caused by obstructive sleep apnea by keeping your airways open using mild air pressure. This therapy is painless and only requires that you wear a mask while sleeping. As you will sleep better with the CPAP machine, your body will start regulating your blood pressure levels naturally and you will start to feel better within a fortnight.
What does a CPAP machine look like?
Does CPAP therapy hurt? Are there any side effects?
How soon will I feel better?
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