Cardiologist and therapist Olga Kotolupova said in an interview with a television channel that snoring can be a harbinger of some diseases. She explained that certain breathing sounds during sleep can indicate the presence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA). In people suffering from this syndrome, during sleep, the muscles of the upper respiratory tract, such as the soft palate and pharynx, not only vibrate, as during snoring, but also periodically close completely, which causes respiratory arrest. This leads to a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood and an increase in carbon dioxide levels.
As Kotolupova explains, the brain is forced to take a break from rest and take some action to regain control over the muscles of the pharynx and open the airways. This cycle can be repeated up to 400-500 times per night. Sleep apnea can lead to conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, ischemia, and nocturnal heart rhythm disturbances.
In addition, Kotolupova noted that OSAS may be one of the causes of type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity. The expert warned that regular breathing difficulties in men during sleep can lead to erection problems and even chronic impotence.
Source: Ferra
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