About half of medical patients with AFib (Atrial Fibrillation) also have sleep apnea. This is a fact documented by by the myAFibexperience.org website as well as other sources. AFib is an abnormal heart rhythm caused by chaotic electrical signals, which make the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) quiver, instead of contracting properly.
People who fall in the following categories are at the highest risk:
- Are 60 years of age or older
- Have high blood pressure
- Have diabetes
- Have existing heart disease
Another risk factor, which is not completely understood, is sleep apnea. Only now are health care providers beginning to understand the overlap of these two conditions, and how addressing both can lead to better patient outcomes.
If you have AFib, part of your treatment plan should be learning about your sleep habits, determining if you suffer from sleep apnea, and working on a treatment plan. Sleep apnea is known to cause a range of cardiovascular, neurological and behavioral problems, including high blood pressure, heart attacks, poor memory, lack of concentration and depression. It is also known to be a risk factor for strokes.
As you age, sleep patterns can change dramatically. This causes problems in and of itself. If you’re a senior or are caring for one and any of the above apply, or if you are concerned about overall sleep health, please use the short form below to get more information, or call us today at (913) 203-4040.
