27 May Weight Loss and Sleep Apnea
Weight Loss and Sleep Apnea
The most common cause of obstructive sleep apnea in adults is being overweight or obese. It is a disorder in which the airways become blocked during sleep, interrupting normal breathing. During sleep, the throat and tongue muscles relax and block the airways. This interruption in breathing can happen many times during a single night, and some people don’t even realize they have sleep apnea. At CODSILS, we help patients understand and manage sleep apnea effectively through weight loss guidance and personalized care.
The three main warning signs of obstructive sleep apnea are:
- Loud, persistent snoring.
- Pauses in breathing, accompanied with gasping episodes when sleeping.
- Excessive sleepiness during waking hours.
If Left untreated, sleep apnea can have serious and life-shortening consequences like:
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- stroke
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Depression
- automobile accidents caused by falling asleep at the wheel
- Other ailments
Multiple episodes of low blood oxygen (hypoxia or hypoxemia) can also lead to sudden death from an irregular heartbeat
The Importance of Weight Loss
The link between excess weight and sleep apnea is well established. People who are overweight are more likely to have extra tissue in the back of their throat, which can fall down over the airway and block airflow into the lungs while they sleep.
Experts continue to emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications—especially weight loss and sleep apnea management—for treating obstructive sleep apnea.
Though losing weight is easier said than done, it can yield real results. For people who are overweight or obese, focusing on weight loss and sleep apnea together can reduce symptoms and improve overall health. Losing just 10% of body weight can make a big difference, and in some cases, significant weight loss can even cure the condition.
While CPAP and oral appliances work well, they aren’t permanent cures for sleep apnea. The most effective way to overcome weight loss and sleep apnea challenges is to address the root cause — excess weight.
Many people suffering from sleep apnea are now opting for bariatric surgery. Their sleep apnea not only improves but overall health also benefits. At CODSILS, we have successfully treated many patients struggling with sleep apnea and related health issues.
For any queries, you can write to Dr Amit Garg ( Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon, Chandigarh, India) at codsils.info@gmail.com or call us at +91 7986991767, +91 6283337650
