Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people all around the world. Anyone who cannot sleep properly due to interruptions in breathing can suffer from sleep apnea. Though it does not affect that severely for a while, if left untreated, it can lead to severe health complications.
One thing that most people don’t realize is, their body weight is directly related to sleep apnea. The heavier you are, the greater the chances will be that you suffer from sleep apnea. Understanding this relation is crucial for determining the right course of treatment.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Know this – there are three types of sleep apnea. You fall into only one of the 3 categories, so you first need to identify which one you exactly suffer from.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: The back muscles in the throat sometimes cause the airway to close, which leads to this form of apnea.
Central Sleep Apnea: This is when your brain isn’t able to send appropriate signals meant for breath controlling muscles.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: This is a combination of the other two forms of sleep apnea.
Now that you know which category you fall in, let’s discuss your weight. Studies have proven that a high number of people who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) end up gaining a lot of weight.
More precisely, the excess body weight would accumulate around the next, thereby causing airway obstruction as you sleep. The fat within the abdomen can also affect the lung’s functioning, thereby keeping the airway open a challenge in itself.
Treatment of sleep apnea is like a cycle that goes both ways. The more you work on it the faster you can get back on getting healthy again in a matter of time. According to the report, as low as 10% fat loss can lead to a 26% improvement in OSA severity. Besides, sleeping on time and getting back on your feet again will also help you lead a healthier life than ever.
Things You Could Follow for Weight Loss
Make Changes in What You Eat: A good diet comprises a healthy mixture of veggies, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. You must also reduce your intake of processed foods and those that have unhealthy fats. Not following a strict diet regime can lead to calorie deficiency, which is definitely not what you would want to do.
Exercise Regularly: Staying active physically can go a long way in keeping your weight in check, besides numerous other benefits. You could do any of the swimming, walking, running, or strength training to boost your body’s metabolism and aid swift weight reduction. The results will definitely give you another reason to stay motivated.
Keep Your Cravings in Check: Sticking to a strict dietary regime is harder than you think. You will not only need to eat healthily but also ensure that you do not give in to your cravings for certain unhealthy snacks. You will also need to make a routine for sleeping, waking up, eating proper portions of nutrition, and exercising without fail. Once you get the habit, you will be set for life.
Avail Medications as Needed: Certain individuals may not be able to work on their obesity despite their best efforts. They can instead start by consulting their doctor who may also prescribe a surgery if no other way seems to work. Post this surgery, your doctor can explain what changes you need to make and how you must stick to them to get the desired results.
Your doctor will play a major role in treating sleep apnea and restoring quality of life. You can always discuss with them the different things you can do that would or would not affect your condition. But rest assured, in their safe hands you will be able to rid yourself of sleep apnea for sure.
Speak to your nearest sleep apnea specialist today to find out more.