Named predictor of heart attack in men

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) can not only seriously disrupt sleep quality but also cause heart attacks, especially in men. This warning was given by Fedor Kovalenko, a candidate of medical sciences, cardiologist, and somnologist, in an interview with kp.ru.

The specialist explained the mechanism of this dangerous condition: with OSAS, breathing repeatedly stops or becomes difficult during sleep due to airway blockage. The main sign of the syndrome is loud snoring with characteristic pauses in breathing. Such episodes lead to a dangerous decrease in blood oxygen levels and a significant deterioration in sleep quality.

Contrary to the common belief that this disease is rare, studies conducted in Europe and North America show alarming statistics: up to 33% of men and up to 19% of women suffer from OSAS, with the risk increasing significantly after age 40.

The cardiologist also emphasized the close connection between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and obesity. According to the expert, excess weight presents a particular danger when fat deposits form in the neck area, leading to narrowing of the airways.