Hypertension in obstructive sleep apnea: risk and therapy
1Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Sleep Medicine, The Ohio State University, 201 Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, 473 West 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43209, USA. aneesa.das@osumc.edu
Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy
|June 10, 2009
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to hypertension due to intermittent hypoxia. Treating OSA with CPAP can help manage blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular risks.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Cardiology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep-disordered breathing condition.
- Epidemiologic studies confirm OSA as a significant risk factor for hypertension.
- The link between OSA and hypertension is attributed to intermittent hypoxia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of the relationship between OSA and hypertension.
- To discuss the causal link between OSA and elevated blood pressure.
- To examine the cardiovascular effects of OSA treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing epidemiologic and pathophysiologic studies.
- Analysis of the mechanisms linking intermittent hypoxia to hypertension.
- Evaluation of the impact of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on hypertension.
Main Results:
- Intermittent hypoxia in OSA increases sympathetic tone, oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction.
- These mechanisms contribute to persistent blood pressure elevation.
- OSA should be considered in the hypertension workup.
Conclusions:
- OSA is a critical factor in hypertension development and management.
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment for OSA impacts hypertension control.
- Effective OSA treatment can reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
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