REN and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: In addition, OSA is a recognized cause of secondary hypertension.37 Episodes of OSA impose multiple injury; however, intermittent hypoxia (rather than hypercapnia, sleep disruptions or intrathoracic pressure oscillations) is thought to be the most important prohypertensive.37 Although the mechanisms underlying OSA-related hypertension are not fully understood, the current concept suggests that the sympathetic nervous system and the renin-angiotensin system alter vascular function and structure, resulting in blood pressure elevation.