Sleep apnea is a pervasive health condition that can negatively impact almost every aspect of your life when untreated. Patients who have this condition suffer from much higher rates of high blood pressure, depression, memory loss, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Those are just a few of the reasons why it is so important to diagnose and treat this condition as quickly as possible. For those who are overweight, losing a few pounds could minimize some of the worst side effects of sleep apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
This condition occurs when the airways become blocked while sleeping, and we now know that obesity is one of the biggest risk factors. Even being a few pounds overweight could have a major impact on your breathing patterns while you sleep. The extra soft tissue can close off your airways and make it difficult for you to get enough oxygen. The most common side effect of sleep apnea is chronic snoring, and many people don’t know that they have this condition until a spouse or loved one informs them of their snoring.
Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Occasionally snoring when you are sick or congested isn’t a big deal, but you should be wary of chronic sleep apnea. Your entire body requires restorative sleep every night, and you might begin to experience a wide range of serious health issues if your apnea remains untreated. This condition will increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, acid reflux, and acute asthma. When you can’t get into the REM stage of sleep, you are also going to be groggy and moody throughout the day.
Obesity and Snoring
Before any procedures are carried out, patients should first try to make sweeping lifestyle changes. Losing a few pounds could drastically improve your snoring and overall health. When the soft tissue in your neck disappears, it is going to be much easier for you to breathe at night. Exercising is also going to strengthen your lungs and make your cardiovascular system more efficient.
Restoring Your Health
The most effective way to lose weight is to find a healthy diet that you can stick to. Everyone has slightly different needs, but most people benefit from a diet that is filled with fresh produce, lean sources of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. You also need to avoid foods that contain simple carbohydrates, processed sweeteners, and unnecessary additives. As for exercise, you might want to begin with low-impact options such as riding a stationary bicycle, swimming, and walking.
If the lifestyle changes don’t improve your sleep apnea, then you will need to explore professional treatment options. At the Center for Metabolic and Obesity Surgery, we offer a variety of weight loss surgeries to help you improve your health. Contact our office today, located in Maitland, FL, to schedule your initial consultation!
