Sleep Apnea Tied to Increased Hospital Visits for Heart Patients

Atrial fibrillation, an abnormal or fluttering heartbeat, can be complicated by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). According to recent findings, heart patients suffering from both had a significantly higher rate of hospitalizations:

About 18% of U.S. patients with atrial fibrillation also have a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, and the confluence of the two appeared linked to increased hospitalizations and further progression of atrial fibrillation, based on a registry of more than 10,000 U.S. atrial fibrillation patients. In addition, patients who have AF and OSA and who are treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) have a reduced rate of AF progression, Dr. Jonathan P. Piccini Sr. said at the annual meeting of the American College of Cardiology.

While use of CPAP has led to lower complications, many heart patients who utilize CPAP find it uncomfortable and disruptive. Because of these issues, a significant number of patients don't consistently use the devices and instead continue to suffer from the symptoms and consequences of sleep apnea.

Heart Patients with Sleep Apnea: Consider Surgical Sleep Solutions

Untreated obstructive sleep apnea can affect your heart, your mind, and your overall health. Whether or not you are a heart patient suffering from atrial fibrillation, treating your OSA can help you become more healthy simply by allowing your body to sleep restfully. Learn more about Surgical Sleep Solutions' low-risk, low-complication alternative to CPAP, a procedure called bimaxallary advancement. If you'd like more information about CPAP alternatives, permanent OSA solutions, or sleep apnea surgeries, call Surgical Sleep Solutions today.