ABSTRACT
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition in adults that has adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. In this chapter, we will discuss the potential relationship of OSA to cardiac arrhythmias and congestive heart failure (CHF). This chapter will also touch upon the possible relationship of central sleep apnea (CSA) to cardiac arrhythmias and CHF. To understand the various proposed mechanisms by which OSA may contribute to the development of cardiac arrhythmias and CHF, it will be necessary to provide an overview of the influence of OSA on the cardiovascular autonomic nervous and conduction systems, and on cardiac mechanics.
