How Are Type 2 Diabetes & Sleep Apnea Related?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects approximately 30 million people in the United States. It can lead to a variety of negative symptoms, including loud snoring, fatigue, and difficulty focusing. What many people don’t know is that obstructive sleep apnea can increase your risk of developing serious health issues, like type 2 diabetes. Continue reading to learn about the connection between the two conditions and why you should seek treatment.

What Is the Connection Between Pre-Diabetes and Sleep Apnea?

A study completed at the University of Hertfordshire published in the Journal of Diabetes and Vascular Disease Research found that there is a significant link between poor sleep quality and elevated hemoglobin A1 (HbA1c) levels, which indicate high blood sugar. The higher the HbA1c level, the higher the risk of developing diabetes. In the study, participants who recorded poor quality of sleep tended to have higher blood sugar levels across a three-month period. This means that you currently have diabetes, it could be worsened by sleep apnea. It is crucial that you get tested and seek treatment if you have symptoms.

What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can be apparent in various ways. Here are some of the most common symptoms that sleep apnea sufferers experience.

• Loud snoring
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Waking up gasping or choking
• Dry mouth and/or sore throat in the morning
• Frequent morning headaches
• Difficulty focusing
• Mood changes
• High blood pressure

What Steps Can Be Taken to Address Sleep Apnea?

Getting quality sleep is always important for your body to thrive. Without getting the rest that you need, the systems in your body can’t work together normally, so you are at increased risk of various serious health consequences, like elevated blood sugar. Here are some steps you should take if you show signs of sleep apnea.

• Seek a Diagnosis: To be treated for sleep apnea, you must first receive a diagnosis from a sleep doctor. By undergoing tis test, they can confirm whether or not sleep apnea is the cause of your symptoms.
• Get Treatment: Once you have received your diagnosis, steps can be taken to relieve your symptoms. There are various options available, including oral appliance therapy. By working with your dentist, you can put together a plan that best meets your needs.
• Make Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight and keep your blood sugar levels under control.

If you have diabetes, it isn’t too late to seek help! By taking the initiative now to get sleep apnea treatment, you can see those positive results you’ve been hoping for! You deserve a good night’s rest!

About the Author

Dr. Deborah A. Romack earned her dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry. Since then, she has attended many continuing education courses about airway obstruction, snoring, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and more! To learn more about sleep apnea or to schedule an appointment at her office in Weatherford, visit her website or call (817) 594-3806.