Obesity and Sleep Apnea

Are you struggling with extra weight and sleep issues? If you wake up tired despite spending eight hours in bed, or if your partner complains about your loud snoring, something more serious could be going on. Obstructive sleep apnea is common, but it can have dangerous consequences if left ignored. Right Weight Center is here to help you understand how sleep apnea could be impacting your metabolism and heart health. Read more to find out how to improve the quality of your sleep and tips for successful weight loss management.

Sleep Apnea and Excess Weight

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs if the airway becomes blocked while sleeping. This causes the breath to repeatedly start and stop. Sometimes, this can happen because excess weight leads to fat deposits around the throat or neck and restricts airflow. Frequent interruptions in breathing can cause someone to wake up dozens of times throughout the night without realizing it. People with sleep apnea can feel exhausted all day and might also struggle with concentration and mood fluctuations. If left untreated, sleep apnea can also increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. Obesity is a leading cause of sleep apnea, so medical weight loss solutions can help you shed pounds and prevent serious health complications in the future.

The Long-Term Health Consequences of Sleep Apnea 

When breathing patterns are disrupted too often through the night, oxygen levels can drop, which triggers stress hormones. This can lead to higher blood pressure, an increase in inflammation, and a greater likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease. People with untreated sleep apnea have an elevated risk of metabolic disorders and insulin sensitivity, too, which can make it easier to gain extra weight. This creates a cycle of excess weight that makes sleep apnea even worse. There’s also a mental health toll to consider. Chronic sleep deprivation can also cause anxiety and depression, which might make it harder to stay motivated and committed to a healthier lifestyle. When energy levels are too low, people are more likely to rely on high-calorie foods for bursts of energy to get through the day.

How Losing Weight Can Improve Sleep Apnea 

For someone with obesity-related sleep apnea, medical weight loss in Bowie, MD is one of the most effective ways to minimize symptoms. Shedding extra pounds can decrease the fat deposits around the throat and make it easier to breathe at night. Studies show that a moderate amount of weight loss can lead to dramatic improvements in the severity of sleep apnea. However, losing weight can be challenging, especially if sleep deprivation is making it hard to stay on track. Weight loss management services from an experienced weight loss doctor can offer the support and guidance needed to break through the cycle of poor sleep and weight gain. Nutritional counseling, exercise plans, and medications can be used to achieve lasting results.

Bariatric Surgery for Severe Cases 

In some cases, traditional weight loss doctor methods might not be enough. If so, bariatric surgery can provide a powerful solution to the problem. Procedures like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy have helped people lose a lot of weight, which can lead to improvements in sleep apnea symptoms. Bariatric surgery isn’t a quick fix, though. It requires a strong commitment to lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and routine exercise.  

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Sleep Apnea 

If you’re looking for practical advice you can use every day to improve your sleep apnea, try these methods:

• Sleep Position: Sleeping on your back can make airway obstruction worse, so sleeping on your sides can help ease symptoms.
• Exercise: Physical activity maintains a healthy weight and helps strengthen the muscles around the airway.
• Less Alcohol and Sedatives: Some substances will relax throat muscles and increase airway collapse during sleep.
• CPAP Therapy: If you are prescribed a CPAP machine, be sure to use it consistently to improve long-term health.

Are You Looking for a Weight Loss Doctor Who Can Help?

Have you been struggling with sleep apnea and excess weight? Right Weight Center is here to offer reliable weight loss management services that can help you regain control of your health. Our specialists offer medical weight loss programs that can help you overcome obesity-related conditions. Quality sleep is within reach. Contact our team to schedule a consultation.