The Sleep–Stroke Connection: Why Untreated Sleep Apnea Raises Your Risk October 27, 2025 The Sleep–Stroke Connection: Why Untreated Sleep Apnea Raises Your Risk Sleep is meant to be the body’s time to rest and repair — but for people with sleep apnea, it can become a nightly struggle that puts more than just rest at risk. Sleep apnea is a common sleep-related breathing disorder where a person’s breathing repeatedly slows or stops throughout the night. Over time, these interruptions can take a serious toll on the body, including raising the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes — and even stroke.1 How Sleep Apnea Affects Stroke Risk Among the different types of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common. It happens when the upper airway collapses during sleep, blocking airflow.1 Each pause in breathing causes oxygen levels to drop, triggering a stress response in the body. This leads to spikes in blood pressure, inflammation, and changes to how blood vessels function — all of which can strain the heart and brain.1 Research shows that OSA is an independent risk factor for stroke.2 That means even without other major risk factors like smoking or high blood pressure, sleep apnea on its own can increase your stroke risk. The more severe the sleep apnea, the greater the risk. In fact, people who experience more than 30 breathing disruptions per hour — known as severe OSA — face the highest likelihood of health complications.2 Why This Connection Matters There are a few key reasons why untreated OSA raises the risk of stroke:2,3 Reduced blood flow to the brain: Each time breathing stops, pressure changes in the chest can restrict blood flow to the brain. Low oxygen levels: Repeated drops in oxygen can damage blood vessels and increase inflammation, making clots or blockages more likely. Strain on the heart: OSA can trigger heart rhythm problems and high blood pressure — both major contributors to stroke risk. Interestingly, the relationship works both ways. People who have experienced a stroke are also more likely to develop sleep apnea, especially within the first 24 hours after the event. Studies suggest that up to 70% of stroke survivors have OSA.2 Recognising the Signs Many people with sleep apnea don’t realise they have it.1 Common signs include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, morning headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness.1 You might also notice trouble focusing, mood swings, or feeling unrefreshed even after a full night’s rest.1 Effective Treatment Is Available The good news is that sleep apnea is highly treatable. The most common treatment is CPAP therapy — a small bedside machine that gently blows air through a mask to keep your airway open while you sleep, eliminating symptoms.4 If you snore heavily, feel tired during the day, or suspect you might have sleep apnea, don’t ignore it. Talk to your doctor about getting assessed. A simple sleep study can make all the difference — not just for better sleep, but for protecting your heart and brain health too. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply. References 1. “Risk of Stroke from Untreated Sleep Apnea.” SleepApnea.org, www.sleepapnea.org/sleep-health/sleep-apnea-and-stroke-risk/. 2. Jehan, Shazia, et al. “Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Stroke.” Sleep Medicine and Disorders: International Journal, vol. 2, no. 5, 30 Nov. 2018, p. 120, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6340906/. 3. Laavanya Dharmakulaseelan, and Mark I. Boulos. “Sleep Apnea and Stroke: A Narrative Review.” CHEST Journal, 1 May 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chest.2024.04.028. 4. Katella, Kathy. “7 Things to Know about Sleep Apnea and CPAP.” Yale Medicine, 18 Apr. 2022, www.yalemedicine.org/news/sleep-apnea-cpap.
