Millions of Americans are unknowingly putting their heart health at risk because of undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
This common yet serious breathing disorder doesn’t just disrupt sleep—it can also lead to life-threatening complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and even sudden cardiac death if left untreated.
Why Doctors Often Miss Sleep Apnea
OSA is a disorder in which the airway in the throat collapses and breathing stops intermittently, causing blood oxygen levels to drop during sleep. Statistics show the disorder affects 26 percent of adults between the ages of 30 and 70.
Allison DeMajistre
Author
Allison DeMajistre, BSN, RN, CCRN is a freelance medical writer for The Epoch Times. She is a registered nurse who previously worked in critical care. She specializes in cardiology-related topics.
