When talking about sleep apnea, it’s not uncommon for the topic of weight gain to come up. Those who are overweight or obese are at a much higher risk of developing an airway obstruction while sleeping, but could the lack of rest cause an individual to put on additional pounds? Not knowing the root cause can be disheartening; however, this vicious cycle doesn’t have to continue. Read on to learn how treatment from a qualified professional can help you take back your overall health once and for all.
How Are Sleep Apnea & Weight Gain Connected?
When it comes to sleep apnea, it can affect individuals of all ages, shapes, and sizes. There are many reasons why it can develop, including lifestyle habits, age, weight, and taking certain medications.
When it comes to risk factors, though, obesity seems to be at the top of the list. Those who have excess fat, specifically around their neck, are more likely to experience an obstructed airway because of the soft tissues falling back onto the throat. This leads to interrupted sleep, which increases the probability of a person developing more serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure, and more.
Yet, the chronic fatigue that comes with sleep apnea can make it more difficult to embrace healthier eating habits as well as engage in physical activity. As a result, people begin to experience weight gain because they have little to no energy.
It’s the perfect chicken or the egg scenario.
What Can Be Done to Improve Sleep and Overall Health?
No matter if weight gain causes sleep apnea or vice versa, the primary focus must be on taking better care of one’s health. This can be accomplished in many ways, including:
- Weight loss: Some sleep dentists offer weight loss treatment as a solution to reducing sleep apnea symptoms and improving a person’s overall well-being.
- Sleep apnea therapy: Whether it is with a CPAP or oral appliance, receiving effective treatment that is designed to prevent a blocked airway is essential.
- Reducing stress: Stress can make it difficult to get a restful night’s sleep and lose weight. Finding ways to reduce it can be highly effective in improving an individual’s life. This can include reading a book, going for a walk, talking to a counselor, or taking a long bath.
- Exercising: Although being overweight or obese can make physical activity more difficult, taking small steps to exercise will not only positively benefit a person’s overall health but also allow for better rest.
If weight gain and interrupted sleep are keeping you from enjoying all that life has to offer, don’t wait any longer to seek help. Finding a qualified sleep dentist can be the first step on the path toward better overall health.
About the Author
Star Sleep & Wellness in Irving consists of several sleep experts who understand the struggles of those who experience chronic fatigue and weight gain. With a sleep nurse practitioner on staff who specializes in nutrition and weight loss, Katie Collier can create personalized treatment plans to help individuals combat sleep apnea symptoms that are linked to excess fat accumulation. If you are struggling to lose weight as well as get the rest you need, contact us.