New Report: Snoring is the leading sign to heart attack and stroke

Snoring may not be more than a common bedtime nuisance, but it should not be ignored. Researchers, in a new study have said snoring could be an early sign of the hardening of the blood vessel. Unfortunately, this is the leading cause of heart attack, stroke and peripheral vascular disease.

According to researchers at the Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, individuals who snore had a greater risk than those who are overweight, smoke or have high cholesterol to have thickening or abnormalities in the blood vessels that supply the brain with oxygenated blood.

The study found changes in the blood vessels of snorers, which the researchers suggested could be due to the trauma and subsequent inflammation caused by the vibrations of snoring.

Lead author of the study, Robert Deeb, stated that individuals who snore should not ignore it, but seek treatment in the same way as those that have sleep apnea, high blood pressure or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is a class of diseases that involve the heart or blood vessels.

The study was presented at the 2013 combined sections meeting of the Triological Society in Scottsdale, Ariz. It has been submitted to The Laryngoscope journal for publication.

Sleep apnea occurs due to the collapse of the airway in the throat during sleep and causes loud snoring and periodic pauses in breathing. It has long been linked to cardiovascular disease, along with a host of other serious health issues.