How does obesity cause sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea and obesity are closely related. Obesity contributes to sleep apnea through various mechanisms. One key factor is the deposition of fat in the upper airway. This narrows the air passage and obstructs natural airflow during sleep. This causes difficulty in breathing and disrupts the sleep pattern.
Obesity also affects respiratory control mechanisms. It affects the regulation of breathing and lung functioning.
The link between sleep apnea and obesity is complex. Weight management becomes very crucial if you are looking to treat sleep apnea and obesity.
Before moving ahead, let’s understand the link between sleep apnea and obesity!!
What is the link between sleep apnea and weight gain?
Weight gain can contribute to aggravating the conditions of sleep apnea. Increased body mass in areas around your neck narrows the airway during sleep. This results in episodes of sleep apnea.
Weight gain is also responsible for affecting the respiratory control mechanism. This disrupts the normal breathing pattern during sleep.
In a study, it was found that weight gain directly impacts sleep apnea in people. Sleep apnea and obesity are directly proportional. That is, the more the weight, the more the chances of developing sleep apnea.
According to experts at Healthline,
“Research suggests that specific weight thresholds and higher BMI levels are associated with an increased risk of sleep apnea. Excess weight, particularly around the neck and upper airway, can contribute to the narrowing and obstruction of the airway during sleep. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals identify potential concerns and take proactive measures to address them.”
Have a look at the symptoms below! It will help you analyze your health for yourself!!
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea caused by obesity?
The relationship between sleep apnea and obesity is reciprocal. In simple words, one leads to the other.
People who are deprived of sleep have decreased levels of leptin. It is an appetite suppressing hormone. While ghrelin increases in their bodies. Ghrelin is an appetite stimulating hormone. This increases the cravings for high calorie foods.
Daytime sleepiness is a common symptom of sleep apnea caused by obesity. Sleep apnea and obesity can lead to decreased energy levels.
Other common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Fragmented and unrefreshing sleep
- Daytime sleepiness
- Excessive tiredness or fatigue during waking hours
- Increased likelihood of snoring
- Episodes of paused or interrupted breathing during sleep (observed by a bed partner)
- Chest discomfort or shortness of breath with physical exertion
Find out, what can be the diagnostics procedures for sleep apnea and obesity!
How is sleep apnea diagnosed in obese individuals?
Sleep apnea can be diagnosed in obese people using various methods. They include:
- Sleep Study (Polysomnography)- This is the most common diagnostic test for sleep apnea. For this, you have to spend a night in a sleep center. Your sleep pattern, breathing and oxygen levels will be monitored. The test will help in understanding the presence and severity of sleep apnea.
- Home Sleep Test (HST)- This is a simplified version of sleep study conducted at home. Portable monitoring devices are used to analyze breathing patterns, oxygen levels and heart rate. This helps in assessing the likelihood of sleep apnea.
- Physical Examination and Medical History- The doctors will suggest physical examinations focusing on the head, neck and throat. They will ask about medical history and sleep related questions to understand the symptoms and underlying causes.
- Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)- It is a type of questionnaire. It assesses daytime sleepiness. It helps gauge the level of sleepiness and evaluate the seriousness of sleep apnea.
- Evaluation of Body Mass Index (BMI)- Since obesity and sleep apnea are significantly related. Assessing BMI provides insight into the likelihood of sleep apnea in obese individuals.
The most important of all is the treatment! Read ahead to learn more!
What are the treatment options for sleep apnea caused by obesity?
Some of the treatment options for sleep apnea include:
- Weight loss- As you know now, sleep apnea and obesity are connected. Losing excess weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can improve the symptoms of sleep apnea.
- CPAP Therapy- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) involves wearing a mask during sleep. It delivers a constant flow of air to keep the airway open.
- Oral Appliance Therapy- Custom-fitted oral appliances can reposition the jaw and tongue. It helps maintain an open airway.
- BiPAP Therapy- Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) delivers different air pressure levels during inhalation and exhalation. It provides more comfortable breathing support during sleep.
- Surgery- Surgeries to remove excess fat from the body can cure obesity. This also might help in curing sleep apnea.
Can bariatric surgery help with sleep apnea?
Yes, bariatric surgery can help with sleep apnea. Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, can lead to significant weight loss. It is helpful in treating sleep apnea and obesity. Bariatric surgery can result in the improvement or even resolution of sleep apnea in many patients. Bariatric surgery can help in achieving weight loss. This reduces the amount of fat tissues around the airways. It decreases the likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea and improves breathing functions. However, you should check with your doctor if bariatric surgery is a suitable treatment option for your sleep apnea and obesity disorder.
Prevention is always better than cure. Incorporate these things in your life to prevent the risk of sleep apnea and obesity!!
How can sleep apnea and obesity be prevented?
Preventing sleep apnea and obesity involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some preventive measures:
- Maintain a healthy weight- Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet. It reduces the risk of both sleep apnea and obesity.
- Exercise Regularly- Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve overall fitness. It makes you less obese and reduces sleep apnea.
- Follow a healthy diet- Eat a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive calorie intake.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to sleep apnea and obesity. Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
- Establish Good Sleep Habits- Practice good sleep hygiene, including maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Create a comfortable sleep environment, and ensure sufficient sleep duration.
- Manage Stress- Chronic stress can impact sleep patterns and contribute to weight gain. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as relaxation techniques, exercise, and social support. This will ultimately help you sleep better.
Try implementing these preventive measures in your daily life. These can go a long way in giving you a better quality of life.
Can losing weight cure sleep apnea?
Losing weight can significantly improve sleep apnea. In some cases, it leads to a complete resolution of the condition. Weight loss can help reduce the excess fat deposits around the upper airway. By losing weight, the airway becomes more open. This reduces the frequency and severity of apnea episodes.
If you are obese and have sleep apnea, losing weight through a combination of healthy eating, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes can help.
What lifestyle changes can help manage sleep apnea caused by obesity?
Like many other disorders, treating sleep apnea and obesity also starts with healthy lifestyle modifications.
Here are some lifestyle changes that can help you in treating sleep apnea and obesity at the same time:
- Healthy eating: follow a balanced diet. Avoid high calorie food that can make you fat.
- Regular physical activity- Engage in regular aerobic exercise for at least 150 minutes per week. It promotes weight loss and improves overall fitness.
- Limit or avoid alcohol and sedatives. These can worsen sleep apnea symptoms.
- Consistent Sleep Routine: Maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing sleep environment.
- Sleep Position- Sleep on your side rather than on your back to prevent airway obstruction.
- Quit smoking to improve respiratory health. This helps in reducing the risk of sleep apnea.
How does diet affect sleep apnea in obese individuals?
Diet plays a significant role in sleep apnea among obese individuals. A healthy diet promotes weight loss. It reduces the severity of sleep apnea. Avoiding processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive calorie intake will help you lose weight and maintain proper weight. This will cure obesity and in turn, cure sleep apnea in many individuals.
What are the long-term health consequences of untreated sleep apnea in obese individuals?
Untreated sleep apnea can cause various long term health consequences. They are;
- Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Hypertension
- Wosen or develop metabolic disorders
- Negatively impact cognitive function
- Cause mood swings
According to experts at Healthline,
"Untreated sleep apnea can have serious long-term health consequences for individuals who are overweight or obese. The condition is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Recognizing the potential health risks underscores the importance of timely diagnosis, intervention, and ongoing management of sleep apnea in individuals with excess weight.
References:
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322943#The-relationship-between-obesity-and-sleep-apnea
