Sleep Apnea Increases Risk for Diabetes

Everywhere we turn; it seems there is new information concerning the way sleep affects our overall health. Researchers are now connecting more conditions and diseases with people that do not get the recommended amount of sleep you need on a daily basis. Now, researchers at the University of Toronto have found a connection between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and diabetes. The study analyzed over 8,500 cases and found patients with OSA have an increased risk of developing diabetes.

The lead author of the study, Dr. Tetyana Kendzerska, says “After adjusting for other potential causes, we were able to demonstrate a significant association between OSA severity and the risk of developing diabetes.” The researchers suspected there was a connection between OSA and diabetes that stems from oxygen desaturation, shorter sleep time, and a higher heart rate. There are three classifications of OSA and all three levels had an increased risk of diabetes. Patients with mild or moderate OSA had an increased risk at 23 percent and severe OSA had a 30 percent increased risk.

Patients with diagnosed sleep apnea can use a CPAP machine to get through the night without losing airflow. Unfortunately, OSA has been tied to obesity and occurs in 50 percent of obese people. Many have no idea they have sleep apnea unless they are told by a spouse, roommate, or notice an increase in daytime fatigue. Sleep apnea may lead to a 90 percent reduction in airflow and can cause choking periods 50 to 100 times per hour. According to the National Sleep Foundation, between 50 and 70 million Americans are affected by chronic sleep disorders.

How do you know you have sleep apnea? Patients notice daytime sleepiness, slower reflexes, and poor concentration. It is important to err on the side of caution, especially when dealing with a disorder that has severe health concerns like diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. Schedule an appointment with the experts at FusionSleep to discuss your concerns and potentially complete a sleep study. Your sleep apnea can be managed but first you need to see a specialist to get diagnosed. Corrective treatment has the potential to save your life.