What are the implications of undiagnosed Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Without treatment, the sleep deprivation and lack of oxygen caused by sleep apnea increases the likelihood of developing other serious health problems, with the most significant risks being to the heart and brain.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a potentially life-threatening disorder that increases the risk of high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, irregular heartbeat, heart attack and stroke. OSA also has been linked to diabetes, depression, headaches, daytime sleepiness and an overall decreased quality of life.

OSA and its associated disrupted sleep patterns have also been clearly identified as a major cause of vehicular or industrial accidents and impaired cognitive performance. Research shows that individuals with OSA are six times more likely to be involved in a traffic accident than those without sleep apnea.