Feb 23, 2026
Sleep apnea significantly raises heart disease risk in women, increasing changes of heart failure, stroke, and coronary artery disease. Tonight, on House Call a medical professional from UHC joins us to discuss the awareness and clinical care gaps of women’s greatest health threat, cardiovascular disease.
1). Is sleep apnea a heart risk?
Yes, snoring and daytime sleepiness can signal sleep apnea, which affects blood pressure and heart rhythm.
2). Why does this matter for women?
- First: It creates a higher risk—Women with sleep apnea face elevated risks for cardiovascular issues like heart failure, stroke, and coronary artery disease, potentially more severe than in men.
- Second: The unique symptoms—Women often present with symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, morning headaches, and mood swings, rather than just loud snoring, causing diagnostic delays.
- Third: Hormonal Factors—Hormonal shifts during pregnancy and menopause can increase susceptibility to sleep apnea and its cardiovascular impacts.
3). What are some key statistics and findings?
Sleep apnea increases heart failure risk by 140% and coronary heart disease risk by 30%. Female heart failure patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have higher rehospitalization risks than men. More than 80% of moderate to severe OSA cases in the general population remain undiagnosed. Be aware of fatigue, headaches, insomnia, and mood changes, not just snoring. Talk to your doctor if you suspect sleep apnea, as it’s often goes undiagnosed in women.
This content was originally posted on the WDTV News website here.
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