🌡️ Climate Change Is Worsening Sleep Apnea. Here’s Why That Matters in St. Louis
Read Time: Approximately 4 minutes
A new study published in Nature Communications and presented at the ATS 2025 conference shows that rising nighttime temperatures are linked to a sharp increase in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) events. The research found that warmer ambient temperatures raise the risk of sleep apnea episodes by 45% on any given night. As global temperatures continue to rise, experts project the worldwide burden of sleep apnea could double within the next 75 years.
(source: https://fortune.com/well/2025/06/17/climate-change-sleep-apnea-productivity/)
Why This Study Matters for St. Louis Residents
In St. Louis, we are no strangers to hot and humid nights. The study’s findings are especially relevant here, where the climate already places added strain on quality sleep. High nighttime temperatures disrupt breathing patterns, making sleep apnea worse for those already affected and more likely to develop for those at risk.
The Bigger Picture: Health and Productivity Impacts
An estimated one billion people around the world live with sleep apnea, most of them undiagnosed and untreated. Beyond poor sleep and fatigue, untreated OSA is associated with serious health risks, including high blood pressure, stroke, cognitive decline, weight gain, and drowsy driving incidents.
The study also looked at economic consequences. In 2023 alone, researchers estimate that climate-related sleep apnea contributed to the loss of approximately 800,000 healthy life years and tens of billions of dollars in lost productivity. If global warming trends continue, these costs are expected to grow rapidly.
What Ellis Sleep Center and Dr. Holly Ellis Recommend
At Ellis Sleep Center in St. Louis, Dr. Holly Ellis takes a proactive and personalized approach to managing sleep apnea. Here's how we can help:
Recognize the Signs of Sleep Apnea
Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, frequent awakenings, morning headaches, fatigue during the day, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating.Get an Accurate Diagnosis
We offer both home sleep testing and in-lab studies to diagnose OSA and other sleep issues effectively.Explore Comfortable, Effective Treatment Options
For many patients, Oral Appliance Therapy is an excellent alternative to CPAP. This dentist-prescribed device gently repositions the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. It’s especially helpful for those with mild to moderate OSA or for those who find CPAP difficult to tolerate during hot St. Louis nights.Adapt Your Sleep Environment to the Heat
Lower your bedroom temperature to 65–68°F, use breathable sheets, avoid alcohol before bed, and stay hydrated. These simple changes can help reduce the severity of heat-related sleep apnea episodes.Stay Ahead of Climate-Related Risks
As temperatures rise, it’s more important than ever to manage OSA early and consistently. Annual evaluations with Dr. Ellis can help track progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Supporting Better Sleep for St. Louis
Ellis Sleep Center is committed to helping people across the St. Louis area get the restful, restorative sleep they need to stay healthy and productive. With expert care from Dr. Holly Ellis and a wide range of treatment options including Oral Appliance Therapy, we make it easier for you to sleep well even in a changing climate.
Final Thoughts
Climate change isn’t just about the weather. It’s already impacting sleep and overall health. Rising nighttime temperatures make sleep apnea more common and more dangerous, especially in cities like St. Louis. The best way to protect yourself is to get screened, get treated, and stay informed. Let Dr. Holly Ellis and the team at Ellis Sleep Center help you take that next step.
Ready to improve your sleep and safeguard your health?
Contact Ellis Sleep Center today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Holly Ellis and take control of your sleep apnea treatment.