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Published on: August 18, 2023
Hypoxic and Autonomic Mechanisms from Sleep-Disordered Breathing Leading to Cardiopulmonary Dysfunction
Avantika Nathani1, Amy Attaway1, Reena Mehra2
1Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue A90, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
Abstract:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder. Its prevalence has increased due to increasing obesity and improved screening and diagnostic strategies. OSA overlaps with cardiopulmonary diseases to promote intermittent hypoxia and autonomic dysfunction. Intermittent hypoxia increases the risk for oxidative stress and inflammation, which promotes endothelial dysfunction and predisposes to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular complications. OSA is associated with an increased sympathetic nervous system drive resulting in autonomic dysfunction leading to worsening of cardiopulmonary diseases. Cardiovascular diseases are observed in 40% to 80% of OSA patients. Therefore, it is essential to screen and treat cardiovascular diseases.
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