Sleep apnea is a common complaint among obese people. It is a serious condition which can cause a person to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep, and cause drowsiness during the day. In addition, disrupted sleep can result in tiredness, headaches, depression, loss of memory and lack of energy. Obstructive sleep apnea has also been linked to more serious problems like high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. This breathing disorder is associated with obesity hypoventilation syndrome.
Obesity is Major Risk Factor For Sleep Apnea
Excess body fat on the neck and chest constricts the air-passageways and sometimes the lungs. Obesity, particularly abdominal and upper body obesity, is the most significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea. The more obese a person, the greater the risk of apnea. Thus morbid or malignant obesity carries a greater risk.
Weight Loss Reduces Sleep Apnea
Weight loss leads to a significant improvement in symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. Even modest weight reduction can help get the condition under control.
