Living in Bend, Oregon has many perks, but the higher altitude can take a toll on some residents’ health, including exacerbating sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by interrupted breathing while asleep, often leading to discomfort and chronic health issues. So, what is the connection between high altitudes and sleep apnea, and how does it impact Bend residents?
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition in which an individual’s breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. This can happen multiple times throughout the night and can be mild, moderate, or severe. The three main types of sleep apnea are:
– Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is the most common and is caused by blocked airways due to soft tissue in the back of the throat.
– Central sleep apnea (CSA), which is less common and is caused by the brain sending the wrong signals to the muscles that control breathing.
– Complex sleep apnea, which is also less common and is a combination of both OSA and CSA.
People with an increased risk of having sleep apnea are those who are overweight, older adults, have a large neck circumference, or a family history of the condition. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, liver problems, and stroke.
The Link Between High Altitude and Sleep Apnea
Research has shown that those who live at higher altitudes may be more susceptible to developing sleep apnea, or seeing an increased severity of existing apnea. This is because higher elevations are associated with a decrease in oxygen levels in the air. Lower oxygen levels can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood. When this happens, the blood becomes thicker and the body may respond by increasing the rate of breathing, to get more oxygen to the body.
People who already have sleep apnea may be more affected by living at high altitudes. When oxygen levels
Dip Too Low The Body Reacts
When oxygen levels dip too low, it can trigger the body’s nervous system, resulting in deeper more frequent breathing. This can worsen symptoms of sleep apnea in those with chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or other respiratory diseases. In some cases, desaturation of oxygen levels in the blood not only increases dyspnea and work of breathing, but can also lead to increased frequency, duration, and severity of sleep apnea.
This isn’t to say that all Bend residents living at higher altitudes will develop worsened symptoms or experience sleep apnea. However, it is important to be aware of the potential impacts of the higher elevation and take the appropriate preventative measures if necessary.
Treating & Managing Sleep Apnea in Bend
It is important for Bend residents with symptoms of sleep apnea, or those with existing sleep apnea, to seek the appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and management. Typically, diagnosis and treatment for sleep apnea includes getting an initial evaluation, possibly having a sleep study, using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, and making lifestyle changes.
Due to the potential impact of high altitudes on sleep apnea symptoms and severity, individuals with or at risk for sleep apnea should seek help from a healthcare provider who understands the potential effects of living at higher altitudes. It is also important for individuals to take preventative measures to help improve symptoms and manage a diagnosis, including maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good sleep hygiene, and avoiding alcohol and medications that can worsen symptoms.
Taking Control of Your Health in Bend
Living at a higher elevation in Bend, Oregon has many benefits for residents, but it can also bring unique health challenges. For those who have or are at risk of developing sleep apnea, it is important to be aware of the potential impacts of living at higher altitudes on the condition.
If you are living in Bend and suspect you have symptoms of sleep apnea or you have been diagnosed with the condition, it is important to seek the right healthcare provider who understands the potential effects of the higher elevation and can provide the necessary care, diagnosis, treatment, and management. Taking control of your health is the most important step in living well at a higher altitude.