Complications of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea, also called OSA, is a disorder that occurs when breathing temporarily stops while a person is sleeping. OSA can occur repeatedly throughout the night, preventing deep, restful sleep and reducing oxygen levels in the blood. A lack of proper sleep can lead to moodiness and depression as well as an increased risk of experiencing an accident on the job or while driving. A decrease in blood oxygenation can also lead to health issues, but the link between OSA and some medical conditions is not entirely understood. Problems associated with sleep apnea include high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, headaches, seizures, asthma, ADHD and complicated pregnancies.