sleep apnea secondary hypertension

Sleep apnea-induced secondary hypertension is a prevalent sleep disorder that can result in persistently elevated blood pressure. Typically, this occurs during sleep due to upper airway obstruction, which leads to recurrent hypoxemia and hypercapnia, triggering a cascade of cardiovascular responses, including increased blood pressure.

Initially, mild sleep apnea may cause slight nocturnal blood pressure fluctuations, potentially due to arousal responses to brief respiratory pauses. Subsequently, moderate sleep apnea may result in a pronounced increase in nocturnal blood pressure, as repeated episodes of hypoxemia and hypercapnia stimulate the secretion of adrenaline, leading to elevated blood pressure. Ultimately, severe sleep apnea may lead to sustained hypertension, as chronic hypoxemia and hypercapnia can impair cardiac and renal functions, causing a persistent rise in blood pressure.

Individuals with sleep apnea-induced secondary hypertension should focus on maintaining good sleep hygiene, avoiding excessive fatigue and stress, and managing their weight and diet by limiting salt and high-fat food intake. Regular blood pressure monitoring is also crucial, and the use of antihypertensive medications should be guided by a physician when necessary. In cases of severe sleep apnea symptoms, such as frequent nighttime awakenings, loud snoring, or excessive daytime sleepiness, timely medical intervention and professional treatment are essential.