Some scientists have claimed that snoring may be an indicator of a myocardial infarction. Snoring contributes to the walls of the carotid arteries becoming thicker. These arteries line the heart and the brain. They can become thicker due to the vibrations caused by snoring.
Dr. Robert Deeb explained, “We had a hunch that snoring was more of a medical condition than a social nuisance or cosmetic issue, as it is more commonly thought. We think the thickening happens because the arteries are reacting to the vibration of the snoring.
Part of the carotid arteries are very close to the throat, only a few centimeters separate them, so it makes sense that the vibration would affect them. We do know that thickening of arteries can be the first sign of an increased risk of stroke and arteriosclerosis [hardening of arteries], two conditions that can affect the heart.”
Snoring is also a primary sign of sleep apnea, which is a known risk factor for cardiovascular-related problems. This is because sleep apnea is linked to obesity, high blood pressure, poor sleep, and higher cholesterol, which are all risk factors for a heart attack.
Therefore, it’s important that if you want to protect your heart, you take the necessary steps to treat sleep apnea along with the other risk factors associated with it. This means speaking to your doctor about using a CPAP device, losing weight, reducing stress, eating healthy, not smoking, and regularly exercising. This not only improves sleep apnea outcome but works towards improving your heart health too.
If you’ve noticed yourself snoring or have been told you snore, take this as the first step to get on track to improving your heart health.
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