Is there a risk of death from sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea has a significant impact on health, and patients may also have an increased risk of death due to their existing medical conditions, with the risk level increasing by up to three times compared to the general population.
Patients with sleep apnea will experience repeated oxygen deprivation, which will put a strain on their cardiovascular system. Compared with the general population, they are more likely to develop complications such as hypertension and diabetes. In addition, the risk of fatal cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart disease and stroke is increased by 3 to 4 times. Patients with myocardial infarction, arrhythmia or heart failure are at the greatest risk and may even die suddenly during sleep!
What other symptoms and dangers are associated with sleep apnea?
- Patients may experience daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and decreased work efficiency; if these symptoms occur while driving, they could even lead to a fatal car accident.
- Obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, arrhythmia, or heart failure can occur at a young age.
- Symptoms such as sleepwalking, sleep talking, and nightmares may occur at night.
- Memory loss can, in severe cases, lead to early-stage dementia.
- Anxiety, insomnia, irritability, restlessness, and even depression.
- Stroke and cardiovascular disease can occur during sleep, and sudden death during sleep is even possible.
- Sexual dysfunction
