What are the health implications of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome has a profound impact on an individual’s health. Excessive daytime sleepiness caused by disruption of normal sleep patterns leads to loss of productivity and ability to concentrate. It also leads to a significant increase in the rate of accidents, including a sevenfold increase in automobile accidents. Obstructive sleep apnea is also associated with greater risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart attack and stroke. The National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research estimates that 38,000 cardiovascular deaths occur each year due to sleep apnea.
