If you have a sleep disorder like sleep apnea, you might want to consider talking to your doctor about your risk for heart disease.
Sleep apnea is a condition where the breathing pattern is interrupted periodically while sleeping, which can reduce the amount of oxygen your body takes in. This condition can coexist with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder that can lead to blood clots, stroke or heart failure.
“Sleep apnea causes the body to take in less oxygen, which causes the heart to work harder to compensate,” said Jeremy Wasserlauf, MD, a clinical cardiac electrophysiologist at Endeavor Health. “This can lead to changes in the heart structure and promote an irregular heart rhythm.”
Treating sleep apnea can help reduce the burden of AFib and lower the risk of it occurring.
Both conditions have similar risk factors, including:
- Obesity
- Age – risk increases as we get older
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Heavy alcohol consumption
Experts recommend that people with sleep disorders discuss their risk factors for heart disease and ways to help prevent it with their doctor.
“Adopting a heart-healthy diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, protein such as fish or poultry, low-fat dairy and whole grains and limiting red meat, sugary treats and sweetened beverages can help prevent heart disease,” Dr. Wasserlauf said.
The American Heart Association recommends exercising a minimum of 150 minutes — or five times per week for at least 30 minutes — to protect your heart health. If you are concerned about managing your asthma while you exercise, talk to your doctor before starting an exercise plan.
Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking and limiting stress can also help prevent heart disease and improve your overall health.
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