Name three major consequences of untreated obstructive sleep apnea on health.

• A. Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke
• B. Diabetes risk, hypertension, and improved daytime functioning
• C. Weight gain, thyroid dysfunction
• D. Sleepiness, hair loss

Answer: (A)

When obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is left untreated, the body endures repeated periods of low oxygen and brief awakenings. This triggers bursts of sympathetic activity, inflammation, and oxidative stress, leading to lasting changes in blood vessels and their function. Over time, these processes push blood pressure upward and promote cardiovascular problems, while the vascular and coagulation changes raise the risk of stroke.

Hypertension is a common and early consequence because the repeated oxygen drops and arousals keep the heart and vessels in a state of heightened activity, often preventing normal nighttime blood pressure dipping. The broader cardiovascular disease risk rises as arteries gradually harden and plaque can accumulate, and the heart bears more strain, potentially leading to heart disease or heart failure. Stroke risk also increases due to the combination of high blood pressure, vascular instability, and a pro-thrombotic state from chronic intermittent hypoxia.

So, the trio of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke best reflects the major health impacts linked to untreated OSA. Other options mix less direct associations (like diabetes risk) or non-related effects (such as improved daytime functioning or hair loss), which aren’t the primary health consequences of untreated sleep-disordered breathing.