Quality sleep is essential for repairing tissues, consolidating memory, and maintaining alertness throughout the day. When sleep is consistently disrupted, it’s crucial to identify the cause to restore healthy sleep patterns. One of the most common yet overlooked causes of poor sleep is sleep apnea—a condition that remains undiagnosed in a significant number of people. In Canada, an estimated 5.4 million adults have been diagnosed with, or are at high risk for, obstructive sleep apnea, yet many remain unaware of their condition. But why do so many cases go undetected? And what are the risks of ignoring a sleep apnea test?
How Does Sleep Apnea Damage the Body?
Sleep apnea repeatedly disrupts breathing, causing drops in blood oxygen levels and forcing the body into a state of stress to restore normal breathing. Over time, these repeated episodes—occurring night after night, year after year—place significant strain on the body, increasing the risk of serious health conditions.
Without treatment, sleep apnea can contribute to:
- Cardiovascular Disease – Increased risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.
- Cognitive Impairment – Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and higher risk of dementia.
- Metabolic Disorders – Links to obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.
- Mental Health Issues – Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and mood instability.
Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Snoring and gasping for air are among the most common signs of sleep apnea, yet they often go unnoticed. If you share a bed, ask your partner if they have observed these symptoms while you sleep. However, sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring—it can also cause a range of other symptoms that impact daily life.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Waking up gasping for air
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
- Frequent nighttime urination (nocturia)
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)
Progression of Sleep Apnea Over Time
If left untreated, sleep apnea tends to worsen over time. The natural aging process, along with factors like muscle tone loss, weight gain, and hormonal changes, can increase airway collapse, leading to more frequent breathing disruptions and lower oxygen levels during sleep.
As sleep apnea progresses, symptoms become more severe:
- Louder, more frequent snoring
- Longer and more frequent breathing pauses
- Increased daytime fatigue and difficulty concentrating
- Greater risk of developing high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and weight gain
Why Should You Get Tested For Sleep Apnea?
If you have symptoms of sleep apnea but choose not to get tested, you may be unknowingly suffering from its harmful effects. Notably, individuals with untreated sleep apnea have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke (1).Testing is the first step toward reclaiming your health and well-being. By getting tested, you can take control of your sleep, explore treatment options, and break free from the burden of undiagnosed sleep apnea. Don’t wait to prioritize your sleep health!
Levels Of Sleep Testing
There are four levels of sleep testing, ranging from full in-lab studies to simple at-home screenings. The right test depends on your symptoms and health conditions.
Level 1 – In-Lab Polysomnography (PSG)
- Conducted in a sleep lab with full supervision.
- Tracks brain activity, heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and more.
- Best for diagnosing complex sleep disorders or cases with multiple health conditions.
Level 2 – Unattended Polysomnography
- Similar to Level 1 but done at home.
- Records detailed sleep data but lacks direct supervision.
- Suitable for those who need advanced monitoring but prefer home testing.
Level 3 – Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT) (Most Common for Sleep Apnea Diagnosis)
- Measures breathing patterns, airflow, oxygen levels, and heart rate.
- Best for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in otherwise healthy individuals.
- Convenient, affordable, and easy to use at home.
Level 4 – Overnight Oximetry / Screening Tests
- Basic test monitoring oxygen levels and heart rate.
- Used as a screening tool, not a full diagnostic test.
- May indicate the need for more comprehensive testing.
FAQ
Yes. Home sleep apnea tests are the most common and convenient way to test for sleep apnea. If you do not have a complex medical history and suspect sleep apnea, a home sleep test is best suited for you!
There are a variety of home sleep testing kits available. However, at Canadian CPAP Equipment, we believe the WatchPAT ONE offers the best value and convenience while maintaining accuracy.
While sleep apnea itself may not cause sudden death, its long-term effects can be life-threatening. The repeated drops in oxygen levels and constant strain on the body increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and fatal arrhythmias—all of which can be deadly.