Sleep Apnea & Obesity – Plano, TX

How is Your Weight Related to Your Sleep?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing is frequently interrupted. Millions of Americans have sleep apnea and, interestingly enough, there seems to be a link between the disorder and obesity. The question is which of the two comes first. Keep reading to learn more about the relationship between sleep apnea and obesity and how both can impact your overall health and wellness. Feel free to call us if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment.

Why Choose Sleep Rehab for Sleep Apnea Treatment?

  • Various Types of Oral Appliances
  • Fully Personalized Sleep Solutions
  • We Gladly Take Medicare

How Does Sleep Apnea Affect Obesity?

Researchers have determined that sleep deprivation can impair metabolism and disrupt hormone levels – in particular, the hormones that tell the brain “I’m full.” Additionally, people who are obese might also have high blood pressure, elevated levels of fasting glucose, and high cholesterol, which can all be made worse by a lack of sleep. So, it’s a vicious cycle: weight gain leads to sleep apnea, which leads to hormonal imbalances, which leads to more weight gain, which worsens sleep apnea, and on and on.

The risk of obstructive sleep apnea rises with weight gain in the neck and trunk area. Weight gain here increases pressure on the airway when the throat muscles are relaxed during sleep. In fact, neck circumference can be a reliable predictor of sleep apnea. Men with a neck circumference of 17 inches or greater, as well as women with a neck circumference of 16 inches or greater, are more likely to have sleep apnea.

Fight Weight Gain with Sleep Apnea Therapy

Sometimes, the best way to treat obesity can be to treat the underlying sleep problem. At Sleep Rehab, we treat sleep apnea with top-of-the-line and FDA-approved oral appliances. We offer different types of oral appliances depending on the patient. All oral appliances work by repositioning the jaw and reducing airway collapse during sleep breathing.

In addition, Dr. Keane Fedosky and the staff at Sleep Rehab offer the following recommendations for weight loss and, thereby, improved sleep:

  • Eat a healthy diet, including lean protein (such as chicken and fish), fresh fruits, and vegetables. Avoid fast food and anything high in fat and carbohydrates.
  • Exercise regularly, which can help you lose weight and improve the quality of your sleep.
  • Try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night to feel awake during the day and to help your metabolic and hormonal systems function well.