The Silent AFib Trigger: How Sleep Apnea Worsens Your Heart (And How to Fix It)

The Hidden Link Your Doctor Wants You to Know About

Shocking fact: 50% of AFib patients have undiagnosed sleep apnea - and most don't even know it! When your breathing stops at night (sometimes 50+ times/hour!), it creates the perfect storm for heart rhythm problems:

1️⃣ Oxygen drops → heart muscle stress

2️⃣ Blood pressure spikes → 40% higher AFib recurrence

3️⃣ Nervous system chaos → triggers erratic heart signals

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Could You Have Sleep Apnea? Take This Quick Check

Use the STOP-BANG questionnaire: The Official STOP-Bang Questionnaire Website

For general population

OSA - Low Risk : Yes to 0 - 2 questions

OSA - Intermediate Risk : Yes to 3 - 4 questions

OSA - High Risk : Yes to 5 - 8 questions

or Yes to 2 or more of 4 STOP questions + male gender

or Yes to 2 or more of 4 STOP questions + BMI > 35kg/m2

or Yes to 2 or more of 4 STOP questions + neck circumference 16 inches / 40cm

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Getting Diagnosed: Home vs Lab Tests (Which is Right for You?)

Option 1: Home Sleep Test (Easy & Effective)

Best for: Most people with suspected sleep apnea

What you do:

• Pick up a small device from your doctor

• Wear it for 1-2 nights at home

• Measures breathing, oxygen, heart rate

Option 2: Overnight Sleep Lab (Most Detailed)

Best for: Complex cases or negative home testsWhat happens:

• Stay overnight at a sleep center

• Sensors that track brain waves, breathing, movements

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Proven Treatments That Help with Sleep Apnea

Treatment	How It Helps	Success Rate
CPAP Machine	Keeps airway open all night	50% see AFib burden improvement
Oral Appliance	Repositions jaw to prevent collapse	Best for mild cases
Weight Loss	Just 10% loss = 50% fewer apnea events	Boosts all treatments

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3 Simple Steps to Better Sleep Tonight

1. Try side-sleeping

2. Avoid alcohol after 6pm (relaxes throat muscles too much)

3. Use a wedge pillow (keeps airways more open)

   
   

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Key Takeaways

✔ Sleep apnea doubles your AFib risk and is prevalent in patients with AF.

✔ Home tests make diagnosis easy and affordable

✔ Treating apnea can reduce AFib episodes/burden by 50%

✔ CPAP is gold standard but other options exist

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What To Do Next: AFib and sleep apnea

1. Take the STOP-BANG quiz (Google it OR use the link above- takes 30 seconds)

2. Ask your doctor about a sleep test

3. Share this with someone who snores!

   
   

For further information regarding sleep apnea and sleep study, please consult your local respiratory/sleep physician.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might benefit from learning about AF in Adelaide.

Link to further reading: Atrial Fibrillation & Weight Loss in Adelaide: Your Complete Guide to Managing AF Through Diet & Treatment