What is a potential consequence of untreated sleep apnea?

The potential consequence of untreated sleep apnea that is highlighted here is the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Sleep apnea can lead to intermittent hypoxia, which is a drop in oxygen levels during sleep due to breathing interruptions. This condition causes stress on the cardiovascular system, leading to several problems such as hypertension, arrhythmias, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Moreover, the fragmented sleep associated with sleep apnea can contribute to increased inflammation and stress on the heart. Over time, these factors can culminate in serious cardiovascular conditions. Addressing sleep apnea through appropriate treatment can significantly improve overall health and reduce these risks, demonstrating the impact untreated sleep apnea can have on cardiovascular health.

The other options suggest outcomes that are generally not associated with untreated sleep apnea. For instance, mental health may deteriorate rather than improve due to the impact of sleep deprivation and stress, athletic performance is likely to suffer due to fatigue, and sleep quality is likely to be poor rather than better without treatment for sleep apnea.