Sleep Apnea can have potential health risk

sleep apnea treatment in hyderabad Sleep is meant to rejuvenate your body and mind. But for people suffering from sleep apnea, nights can be anything but restful. What may seem like harmless snoring or fatigue can, in reality, signal a serious health condition with long-term consequences.

In this blog, we explore why sleep apnea is more than just a sleep disorder, and why getting diagnosed and treated early is essential for your overall well-being.

Published By microcareenthospitals.com / Updated: July 14, 2025

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), caused by the relaxation of throat muscles. Less common types include Central Sleep Apnea and Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Loud, persistent snoring

Gasping for air during sleep

Morning headaches

Excessive daytime sleepiness

Difficulty concentrating

Mood swings or irritability

Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

If you or your partner notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to speak with a qualified ENT doctor near you.

Health Risks Associated with Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is not just about poor sleep. It can silently damage various systems of your body:

1. Heart Disease and Hypertension

Interrupted breathing lowers oxygen levels, forcing your heart to work harder. This increases the risk of:

High blood pressure sleep apnea treatment in hyderabad

Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia)

Stroke

Heart failure

2. Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome

Sleep apnea interferes with insulin processing, which can lead to:

Type 2 diabetes

Weight gain

Increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels

3. Mental Health Disorders

Chronic sleep deprivation from apnea affects brain function and may lead to:

Depression

Anxiety

Memory problems

Reduced cognitive performance

4. Liver Complications

Studies have shown that people with sleep apnea are more likely to have:

Fatty liver disease

Elevated liver enzymes

Liver scarring

5. Complications in Surgery and Medications

Sleep apnea can affect:

Post-surgical recovery

Anesthesia safety

Response to medications
This is especially critical during surgeries involving sedation.

6. Daytime Accidents

Fatigue and drowsiness from sleep apnea reduce alertness, leading to:

Road accidents

Workplace injuries

Poor academic or job performance

Who is at Risk?

Anyone can develop sleep apnea, but risk factors include:

Obesity

Male gender

Age over 40

Family history

Smoking

Nasal congestion

Enlarged tonsils or adenoids (especially in children)

How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

Sleep apnea is usually diagnosed using a Polysomnography (sleep study) or home sleep apnea test (HSAT). ENT specialists may also perform airway evaluations to identify physical blockages.

Effective Treatment Options

Depending on the severity, your doctor may recommend:

Lifestyle Changes

Weight loss, quitting smoking, sleeping on your side, and avoiding alcohol.

CPAP Therapy

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a device that keeps your airway open while you sleep.

Oral Appliances

Custom dental devices reposition the jaw to keep the airway open.

Surgery

ENT surgeries such as:

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)

Septoplasty

Tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy

Inspire therapy (implant device for severe cases)

At MicroCare ENT Super Speciality Hospital, Hyderabad, we offer advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments for sleep apnea tailored to your needs.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Treatment

sleep apnea treatment in hyderabad Sleep apnea is a progressive condition. Ignoring the signs can lead to irreversible damage. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can:

Improve your quality of life

Boost energy and mood

Reduce risk of life-threatening complications

Protect your heart, brain, and overall health

Final Thoughts

Sleep apnea is not just “loud snoring”—it’s a serious medical disorder with widespread effects on your body and mind. If you or a loved one show signs of disturbed sleep or excessive daytime sleepiness, don’t wait. Book a consultation with Dr. Sriprakash Vinnakota, one of the best ENT specialists in Hyderabad, at MicroCare ENT.

ENT Health Information – American Academy of Otolaryngology