What is the link between sleep apnea and cancer?

The link between sleep apnea and cancer

Sleep apnea is basically a common sleep disorder that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. This disorder results in a range of health problems if it is left untreated. One of the problems associated with sleep apnea is its link to cancer. Because of sleep apnea, the risk of cancer development increases. Also, many researchers found that sleep apnea also led to the growth of tumors. In this condition, the body of the person is deprived of oxygen during the night, which results in diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, etc. If the person suffers from sleep apnea and finds symptoms of cancer, they will get the best cancer treatment at Oncoplus Hospital. In this blog, you will read about the symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention of sleep apnea.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

1. Loud snoring:

Loud snoring is the most common symptom of sleep apnea. It is caused by the vibration of the soft tissues in the throat as air passes through a narrowed airway.

2. Morning headaches:

Another common symptom of sleep apnea is waking up with a headache, particularly in the morning. This is because sleep apnea can cause a decrease in oxygen levels, leading to headaches.

3. Restless sleep:

Sleep apnea can cause restless sleep. In this situation, the body tries to find a comfortable position to breathe.

4. Mood changes:

Sleep apnea can cause irritation, mood swings, and depression due to the chronic lack of sleep.

5. Morning headaches:

The most common symptom of sleep apnea is waking up with a headache, particularly in the morning. This is because sleep apnea can cause a decrease in oxygen levels, leading to headaches.

6. Choking during sleep:

If you frequently wake up during the night feeling like you are choking, then this could be a sign of sleep apnea. In this condition, your breathing is interrupted, and your brain sends a signal to wake up so that you can start breathing normally again.

7. Excessive daytime sleepiness:

In this situation, people with sleep apnea feel excessively tired during the day, even after a full night’s sleep.

8. Dry mouth or sore throat:

People with sleep apnea wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat, as they are constantly trying to breathe properly during the night.

Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea:

The common tests to diagnose sleep apnea are as follows:

1. Nocturnal polysomnography:

In this test, equipment monitors the brain, lung, and heart activities, as well as the blood oxygen level when you sleep.

2. Home Sleep Apnea Test:

This test is used at home in order to diagnose sleep apnea. It measures your blood oxygen level, heart rate, and breathing pattern. If central sleep apnea is suspected, doctors recommend polysomnography.

The connection between sleep apnea and cancer

Sleep apnea is a common disorder in which a person experiences pauses in their breathing while sleeping. The condition is associated with a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. Research shows that sleep apnea increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer. People with sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing lung cancer, and this is due to the reduced oxygen levels that occur during sleep apnea, which lead to the growth of tumors. It also increased the risk of other types of cancer, such as bladder, kidney, breast, and uterine cancer. It is believed that the disruption of sleep patterns and reduced oxygen levels result in sleep apnea.

Prevention of Sleep Apnea:

The following are some of the tips that you should take to prevent sleep apnea:

1. Maintain a healthy weight.

Obesity is one of the leading causes of sleep apnea. Excess weight makes it difficult for you to breathe properly. By maintaining a healthy weight, you reduce the risk of developing sleep apnea.

2. Quit smoking:

It is difficult for anyone who smokes to breathe properly. If you quit smoking, this will not only improve your overall health but also reduce the risk of developing sleep apnea.

3. Avoid alcohol:

If you avoid alcohol before bedtime, this will reduce your risk of sleep apnea.

Other things you can practice to avoid sleep apnea are improving your sleep quality and managing your other health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, etc.

In conclusion, sleep apnea is a serious condition if it is left untreated and can have significant health consequences. By making some lifestyle changes and improving the quality of your sleep, you can reduce your risk of developing sleep apnea. If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, then you can visit the Oncoplus Hospital, where you can consult the best oncologist in Delhi.