Sleep apnea is a common sleep problem that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is characterized by frequent breathing pauses during sleep, which lower blood oxygen levels and disturb sleep cycles. Over time, studies have revealed the major negative effects of sleep apnea on cardiovascular health and the intricate connection between these two vital physiological systems. The Relationship Between Cardiovascular Health and Sleep Apnea The link between sleep apnea and heart health is reciprocal, which means that one condition can make the other worse. Cardiovascular health can be negatively impacted by sleep apnea, and pre-existing cardiac issues might make sleep apnea symptoms worse. Although the precise mechanisms causing this association are not completely understood, a number of things play a role. Intermittent Hypoxia: One of the defining characteristics of sleep apnea is intermittent hypoxia , in which sufferers repeatedly experience reductions in blood oxygen levels