Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people all around the world. It happens when a person’s breathing is interrupted during the night, leading to snoring, gasping, and sometimes choking.

This interruption can lead to a serious condition known as thromboembolism. In this article, we will discuss the link between sleep apnea and thromboembolism, its symptoms, and treatment options.

What is Thromboembolism?

Thromboembolism is a medical condition that occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream, eventually getting stuck (embolizing) in a blood vessel.

A blockage caused by a thrombus can lead to damage, especially if it happens in the brain, lungs, or legs. If not treated in time, it can lead to stroke, pulmonary embolism, or deep vein thrombosis.

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Thromboembolism

There has been a great deal of research on the link between sleep apnea and thromboembolism. Studies have shown that people with sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing thromboembolism than those who don’t suffer from this sleep disorder.

One theory is that sleep apnea leads to low oxygen levels in the bloodstream, which in turn increases the risk of developing blood clots.

Recent research has also shown that the susceptibility to blood clotting increases during the night, which is the time when sleep apnea patients experience significant breathing disruptions.

This could potentially lead to developing a blood clot, which in turn, could lead to a life-threatening condition like thromboembolism.

Symptoms of Thromboembolism

The symptoms of thromboembolism depend on the location of the blood clot. Some common symptoms include:.

Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Mild to severe chest pain, which may feel like a heart attack
Swelling, pain, or tenderness in the arms or legs
Sudden onset of weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Blurred or loss of vision in one or both eyes

Treatment Options for Thromboembolism

The treatment for thromboembolism will depend on the severity of the case. Some common treatments include:.

Blood thinners – medication that prevents blood clots from forming or worsen.
Thrombolytics – medication that dissolves blood clots immediately.
Embolectomy – surgical removal of the clot via a catheter or device that is inserted into the affected blood vessel.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

Treating sleep apnea can help reduce the risk of developing thromboembolism. Some common treatment options for sleep apnea include:.

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) – a device that uses air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.
Oral appliances – specially designed mouthpieces that help to keep the airway open during sleep.
Lifestyle changes – losing weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking can all improve sleep apnea symptoms.

Conclusion

Thromboembolism is a serious medical condition that can be caused by sleep apnea.

People who suffer from sleep apnea should keep a lookout for any symptoms of thromboembolism, including sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and swelling of the arms or legs. If they experience any of these symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately.

To reduce the risk of thromboembolism, it is essential to treat sleep apnea. Treatment for sleep apnea includes lifestyle changes, oral appliances, and continuous positive airway pressure devices like CPAP machines.

By taking the necessary preventative measures, people can reduce their risk of thromboembolism, and enjoy a better quality of life.