In recent years, doctors and researchers alike have believed that obstructive sleep apnea could possibly be causing a host of extremely dangerous medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). But a new study out of Ireland’s University College Dublin has found that the reverse may also be true. Sleep apnea, especially obstructive sleep apnea or OSA, could be caused by many of these comorbid conditions.For example, researchers suggest that patients with diabetes or COPD who are obese could develop obstructive sleep apnea due to their weight, as often pressure on the airway from fat deposits on the neck and in the tongue have been found to be responsible for some patients sleep apnea.When it comes to the connection between sleep apnea and these dangerous comorbid conditions, it appears to be a two-way street, so to speak. One condition feeds the other, and vice versa.So, what can be done to reduce one’s risk of developing sleep apnea and a dangerous comorbid condition? For starters, maintaining a healthy weight and getting plenty of exercise and sleep. This will help not only during the night, but during the waking hours as well.Furthermore, if you already have a comorbid condition such as COPD or hypertension, it’s wise to get that condition under control so that you are not putting yourself at further risk from the side effects as well as from sleep apnea.
Finally, treating your sleep apnea is another excellent way to help reduce weight and improve your health, which in turn may improve your comorbid conditions. Not sure where to begin? Dr. Peterson can help. Dr. Peterson offers the solution you’ve been searching for when it comes to your sleep apnea.Tired of complicated and clunky CPAP machines and masks? Great news. Dr. Peterson offers sleep orthotics that can help prop your airway open naturally, allowing you to breathe comfortably throughout the night so that you’re healthier around the clock, and able to better function during the day.To learn more about sleep solutions and sleep orthotics offered by Dr. Peterson, please contact the office today for a consultation!
