Is there a Link Between Sleep Apnea and Hypertension?

Sleep apnea or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most common sleeping disorder. Snoring, gasping of air while sleeping and irregular breathing are some of the first few signs of OSA. What most people might not know is that OSA is associated with an increased risk of hypertension.

Factors that affect sleep apnea-associated hypertension

If you have OSA, it doubles the risk of hypertension. So, it is important to know about a few other factors that increase your risk of sleep apnea-associated hypertension:

• Weight: If you are overweight or obese it increases the chances of both hypertension and OSA.

• Gender: Due to the differences in male and female hormones, males at a greater risk of OSA and hypertension as compared to females.

• Age: Aging is significantly associated with increased blood pressure levels and OSA. More number of cases are often seen after 60 years of age.

• Sleep duration: If you are sleeping for less than 7 to 8 hours, then it increases your risk of hypertension.

How to prevent sleep apnea-associated hypertension?

You can prevent sleep apnea-associated hypertension through the following ways:

1. Medication: Treatment of OSA along with antihypertensive medications, helps in preventing the complications of OSA.

2. Physical activity: 30 minutes of physical activity daily helps in controlling your body weight, getting better sleep and management of blood pressure. Avoid exercising before going to bed.

3. Avoid alcohol and caffeine: Limit or avoid consumption of alcohol, as it disturbs sleep. Before going to bed avoid having tea, coffee or energy drinks as they contain high levels of caffeine.

4. Say no to smoking: Smoking increases the level of blood pressure, so avoid indulging yourself in this habit. Also, stay away from secondary or passive smoking.

5. Stress management: High stress levels may impact your sleep and increase the risk of hypertension. Try listening to music, or having a warm water bath. Such practices are known to relax your mind and body.