Are You At Risk Of A Second Chronic Disease?

Many chronic conditions are linked to each other, which means having one increases your risk for developing another. About 85% of people ages 60 or older have at least one chronic disease, and 60% have at least two.

Common chronic conditions include obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. If one is not controlled, there can be a domino effect.

Here are some common associated conditions:

• Obstructive sleep apnea and high blood pressure: During an apnea, there is a temporary pause in breathing which causes oxygen levels to drop, placing stress on the heart. In turn, the body responds with a surge in stress hormones and an increase in blood pressure. Sleep apnea is also linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression and more.
• Hearing loss and cognitive decline: The inability to hear decreases a person’s social interactions, which may increase the risk of developing dementia.
• Obesity and joint problems: While obesity plays a big role in cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, it also puts strain on your joints and wears away the cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis.

If you have a chronic condition, it is important to speak with your doctor and discuss the associated risks – particularly obstructive sleep apnea.

The CPAP Clinic has a network of 40 clinics nationwide, and works in partnership with Centurion Healthcare, a Respiratory & Sleep Specialist clinic group to provide comprehensive sleep care including:

1. Respiratory & Sleep Specialist consultation – face-to-face and telehealth available
2. Sleep studies – in-lab, home and contactless sleep studies available.

Bulk billing available for specialist telehealth consultations as well as sleep studies. Medicare criteria apply. Call 1300 76 29 39 or email info@thecpapclinic.com.au for more information.