Can sleep apnea get worse if left untreated at 45?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 45 years old and suspect that I may have sleep apnea because I often wake up feeling tired and sleepy during the day.

I have not started any treatment yet, which makes me wonder whether sleep apnea will keep getting worse if left untreated at my age or whether it can remain stable.

I am concerned about the long-term effects, but I am also unsure about the testing and treatment process.

Is it risky to delay evaluation?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Your symptoms do raise the possibility of obstructive sleep apnea (a sleep disorder where throat muscles relax excessively during sleep, causing the airway to collapse and breathing to stop repeatedly).

Many patients with sleep apnea are not aware of breathing pauses during sleep and only notice fatigue, morning heaviness, poor concentration, or daytime drowsiness.

At your age, it is reasonable to get evaluated rather than delaying for too long. In some people, sleep apnea can remain mild and relatively stable for years. Still, in many patients, it gradually progresses over time, particularly if there is weight gain, snoring, alcohol use, nasal blockage, or other medical conditions.

Untreated sleep apnea over many years can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heart rhythm, diabetes, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

A sleep study is usually the next step if symptoms are persistent. It helps determine whether sleep apnea is actually present and, if so, how severe it is. The test itself is noninvasive and is routinely performed.

This is not something that usually becomes dangerous overnight, so there is no need to panic.

If sleep apnea is confirmed, treatment depends on its severity. Some patients improve significantly with weight reduction and positional measures, while others may require CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy.

Most people who receive proper treatment notice better daytime alertness and improved sleep quality over time.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.