Hypoxia occurs in sleep apnea and leads to the contraction of pulmonary artery. When the pulmonary artery pressure is over 25mmHg, pulmonary hypertension forms. This leads to the cardiopulmonary load gradually increase, with associated complications occur.
Cor pulmonale
This means cardiopulmonary disease. Because of long-term pulmonary hypertension, this leads to right ventricular heart failure.
Respiratory failure
Further damage to the respiratory function, leading to hypoxia and/or retention of carbon dioxide that causes respiratory failure.
Diabetes
Due to the frequent breathing pauses during sleep, this causes hypercapnia and hypoxemia. Hence affecting insulin secretion and functioning, forming a series of metabolic disorders.
Hypertension
Blood pressure continues to be greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg when measured at stationary state
Arrhythmia
Sleep apnea can lead to abnormal heart rhythm occurring form the cardiac origin. The cardiac frequency, rhythm and fibrillation can change as well.
Stroke
The body has long-term hypoxia and increased blood viscosity. Blood clots form easily, leading to blood vessel blockage or rupture in brain. Hence, stroke occurs.
