What is a possible impact of untreated sleep apnea on health?

Untreated sleep apnea can significantly impact an individual's health, particularly by increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. Sleep apnea leads to repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can result in lower oxygen levels in the blood and increased strain on the cardiovascular system. Over time, this strain can contribute to conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and even stroke. Additionally, sleep apnea is often associated with metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes due to its impacts on insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic function.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences associated with untreated sleep apnea. Improved mental health outcomes or reduced daytime sleepiness contradict the more common experiences of individuals suffering from sleep apnea, who often face increased anxiety, depression, and excessive daytime sleepiness due to their fragmented sleep. Furthermore, untreated sleep apnea is more likely to contribute to, rather than decrease, the likelihood of developing anxiety disorders.