High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called the "silent killer" because it rarely has noticeable symptoms but can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease and stroke. But what many people don’t realize is that there’s a strong link between high blood pressure and another silent disruptor—sleep apnea.
In this article, we’ll explore how sleep apnea contributes to high blood pressure, why addressing sleep apnea can improve heart health, and what you can do if you suspect you have both conditions.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. These interruptions lead to oxygen deprivation and fragmented sleep, which can trigger a cascade of health problems—including high blood pressure.
Learn more about sleep apnea here
Prevalence of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is more common than many people realize. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, approximately 30 million adults in the United States have obstructive sleep apnea, but only 6 million have been diagnosed. Studies suggest that 1 in 5 adults experience at least mild sleep apnea, while 1 in 15 suffer from moderate to severe cases.
Sleep apnea is particularly prevalent among individuals with high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. It’s estimated that over 50% of people with hypertension also have sleep apnea, creating a dangerous cycle of worsening cardiovascular health.
Certain risk factors, including age, gender (men are more commonly affected), and family history, increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea. However, it is also frequently underdiagnosed, as many individuals attribute symptoms like snoring and fatigue to stress or aging rather than an underlying medical condition.
Jill's Story: A Life-Changing Diagnosis
Jill had persistent hypertension that her physician was struggling to manage with medication alone. Despite multiple adjustments to her prescriptions, her blood pressure remained stubbornly high. Frustrated, Jill’s doctor referred her to iSLEEP for a home sleep apnea test.
The results were clear—Jill tested positive for obstructive sleep apnea. Within just three days, she received her CPAP machine and met with an iSLEEP Respiratory Therapist to learn how to manage her new treatment. Over the next 30 days, Jill worked closely with our clinicians, addressing any challenges she encountered.
Initially, Jill started with a nasal mask, but due to a deviated septum, she required a full-face mask. Thanks to iSLEEP’s 30-night mask fit guarantee, she was able to switch to the right mask at no extra cost.
Within three months, Jill’s persistent hypertension was finally under control, and she was able to reduce her dosage of high blood pressure medication. Jill’s story is one of many that highlight the profound impact that sleep apnea treatment can have on heart health and overall well-being.
How Sleep Apnea Raises Blood Pressure
The relationship between sleep apnea and high blood pressure is complex but well-documented. Here’s how it works:
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Oxygen Deprivation and Stress Response
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When breathing stops during sleep apnea episodes, oxygen levels drop. The brain senses this drop and triggers a stress response, causing the body to release stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones constrict blood vessels and increase heart rate, leading to elevated blood pressure over time.
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Sympathetic Nervous System Overactivation
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The sympathetic nervous system (which controls the “fight or flight” response) becomes overactive in people with sleep apnea. This constant state of activation increases blood pressure even when a person is awake.
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Inflammation and Endothelial Dysfunction
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Sleep apnea promotes inflammation and damages the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels), making it harder for blood vessels to relax and regulate blood pressure properly.
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Disrupted Sleep Patterns
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Poor sleep quality from repeated awakenings increases blood pressure and can lead to other metabolic issues such as insulin resistance and weight gain, both of which further contribute to hypertension.
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The Research-Backed Link Between Sleep Apnea and Hypertension
Numerous studies have established a strong correlation between sleep apnea and high blood pressure:
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The Wisconsin Sleep Cohort Study found that people with severe untreated sleep apnea were almost three times more likely to develop hypertension compared to those without sleep apnea. (Source)
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The American Heart Association (AHA) states that more than 50% of people with sleep apnea also have high blood pressure. (AHA Hypertension Study)
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A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treating sleep apnea with CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy significantly reduced blood pressure levels in patients with resistant hypertension (high blood pressure that doesn’t respond well to medication). (Read the study)
Can Treating Sleep Apnea Lower Blood Pressure?
The good news is that managing sleep apnea can help lower blood pressure, especially in those with resistant hypertension. Here are some of the most effective treatment options:
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CPAP Therapy
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CPAP is the gold standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It keeps the airway open by delivering a constant stream of air, preventing oxygen drops and reducing nighttime blood pressure spikes.
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A study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that CPAP therapy led to a significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients. (Study)
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Lifestyle Changes
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Weight loss: Excess weight is a major risk factor for both sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Losing even 10% of body weight can significantly improve symptoms.
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Exercise: Regular physical activity can help regulate blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
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Avoiding alcohol and sedatives: These relax the muscles in the throat, worsening sleep apnea and increasing blood pressure.
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Oral Appliances & Surgery
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Dental devices that reposition the jaw can help mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.
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In severe cases, surgical options like upper airway surgery or Inspire therapy (a pacemaker-like device for sleep apnea) may be recommended.
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Final Thoughts
High blood pressure and sleep apnea are a dangerous duo, but the good news is that treatment for sleep apnea can dramatically improve cardiovascular health. If you have hypertension and suspect you might have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about getting tested. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious health complications and improve your quality of life.
Want to take control of your sleep and heart health? Order our Home Sleep Apnea Test here!
