Obstructive Sleep Apnea & Obesity

Today’s article provides information about the two forms of sleep apnea and their symptoms.

There are two types of sleep apnea: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and the more dangerous Central Sleep Apnea (CSA). Most of the time, patients do not realize they have sleep apnea until a family member tells them that they snore or seem to have labored breathing while sleeping.

Snoring is a warning sign for sleep apnea. The tongue and throat become relaxed during sleep obstructing the airway. Treatment consists of consulting with a Sleep Specialist. They sometimes advise Constant Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) for OSA and a Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) for CSA.

The most common OSA symptoms include sleepiness or fatigue, dry mouth, headaches in the morning, trouble concentrating or forgetfulness, night sweats, restlessness during sleep, and sudden awakenings with gasping or choking as well as snoring.

With Central Sleep Apnea, breathing is disrupted regularly during sleep. CSA is not affected by obesity. In some cases having a large neck can increase the risk for OSA.

Often times, neck size can be reduced with weight loss.

Not recognizing sleep apnea may result in many possible health problems including:

· Diabetes

· Stroke

· High blood pressure

· Heart failure, heart attacks

· Depression

Patients who are overweight and think they have sleep apnea can call Dramatic Weight Loss Center at 770-394-9991 or go to dramaticweightloss.com to request the DWL staff contact you for your free consultation.

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