Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts.
Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. Apr 24, 2024 11:17 am IST Published On Apr 24, 2024 11:17 am IST Last Updated On Apr 24, 2024 11:17 am IST Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email A new study has said that air pollution can increase the risk and severity of obstructive sleep apnea. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email It is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. The condition affects 18 million people just in the US. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email As per the research, exposure to persistently high levels of air pollution can cause systemic inflammation. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email It also causes oxidative stress, potentially leading to or worsening upper airway dysfunction during sleep. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email For the study, experts carried out a systemic review and meta-analysis of 12 studies. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email They found that air pollutants, especially NO2, might play a role in worsening sleep apnea risk and severity. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email NO2 is part of a group of gaseous air pollutants produced because of road traffic and other fossil fuel combustion processes. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email The researchers said that this discovery has significant implications for clinical practice. Share Twitter WhatsApp Facebook Reddit Email Sleep apnea also leads to several health complications, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension and impaired cognitive function.