Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on the Progression and Management of Systemic Arterial Hypertension

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a recognized independent risk factor for systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), contributing to increased blood pressure and higher cardiovascular event rates. This review explores the scientific literature on the mechanisms linking OSA and SAH, focusing on the roles of intermittent hypoxia and sympathetic nervous system activation in the pathophysiology of SAH in OSA patients. The research included studies from 2017 to 2021, with an emphasis on the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on blood pressure and cardiovascular risk factors. Findings indicate that CPAP therapy reduces blood pressure and enhances quality of life, preventing complications linked to hypertension. Additional studies on CPAP’s long-term effects across diverse populations are recommended to deepen understanding and management of OSA and SAH comorbidities.