Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Breast Cancer
Written By: Nicole Estler-Teal RPSGT, NCMA
What happens to us during sleep is important for daily functions. Without proper sleep we are unable to enjoy daily functions, heal from illness, and enjoy a normal quality of life. When our bodies are deprived certain elements like oxygen or nutrients it begins to become ill. Hypoxia is the lack of oxygen to tissues within the body which can cause triggers of our natural response to production of inflammatory mediators known as VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor). OVer time excessive stimulation of areas such as the breast can cause abnormal growth of cells causing benign growths and cysts. With this overexposure of the excessive inflammatory process and cell replenishment within these areas growths can become malignancies.
Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea women should look for are: high blood pressure, trouble sleeping on thier backs, headaches, daytime sleepiness, disruptive snoring, gasping or choking for air while sleeping, insomnia, lack of concentration due to sleepiness, depression or irritability. The process for diagnosing sleep apnea is fairly simple. First you will meet with a Board Certified Sleep Physician. You and the physician will discuss all options and symptoms you may be experiencing. Then a sleep study is performed overnight in the comfort of a private room within the sleep facility. Treatment facilities can be easily found within our community at Okanogan Douglas Hospital.
Content Copywright 2012 NCW Media Inc
Posted with permission of Nicole Estler-Teal October 2012