ELIZABETH — Good, uninterrupted sleep is precious. It restores and refreshes the body so that it can function at its best every day.
As the stresses of modern life drain physical and emotional energy, the body seeks the relief that healthy sleep provides. However, research has shown that sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea — momentary interruptions in breathing which cause repeated awakenings — can negatively effect overall health.
The disruptive impact of sleep apnea has a dramatic impact on cardiovascular health. As reported on the website of the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, such sleep disturbances can lead to high blood pressure, the potential for stroke, and heart disease. The Mayo Clinic notes that for those who have underlying heart disease, the multiple episodes of low blood oxygen that occur with sleep apnea can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
Dr. Vipin Garg, medical director of the Trinitas Comprehensive Sleep Disorders Center in Elizabeth and Cranford, will address these issues in a free educational program timed to coincide with Sleep Awareness Week.
“Pillow Talk: The Link Between Sleep and Heart Disease” will take place on Thurs., March 5, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the CORE Building of Trinitas Regional Medical Center, 1164 Elizabeth Ave., Elizabeth. The program will include a light dinner.
Garg who is board certified in sleep medicine, pulmonary medicine, critical care medicine and internal medicine, reports that approximately 20 to 25 percent of patients who are diagnosed with sleep apnea at the Center have hypertension or heart disease.
“Sleep apnea essentially places great strain on the cardiovascular system. When breathing stops over and over again during sleep apnea episodes, the heart is deprived of the precious blood oxygen levels it needs to perform as it should,” said Garg.
Those interested in learning more about sleep and how it makes a difference in cardiovascular heart can make reservations to attend this free program by calling 908-994-8939.