If you have sleep apnea, you know better than anyone how much of a struggle it can be to get a good night’s rest. But did you know that new research suggests that you might be at risk of additional health complications because of your sleep apnea? According to a study conducted by the University of Hertfordshire, there might be a link between sleep apnea and patients with prediabetes developing full-blown diabetes. Keep reading to learn more about this connection.
What the Research Says
The study surveyed a group of 40 patients who were clinically diagnosed with prediabetes. This means that their blood sugar levels were higher than average, putting them at a much greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Researchers analyzed the sleeping patterns of participants, noting the quality of their sleep as well as the duration. The results showed a significant link between those with poor sleep and an increase in their hemoglobin A1c levels. This is indicative of high blood sugar, and therefore suggests a higher risk of developing diabetes.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Diabetes
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that causes a disruption of breathing during sleep. Soft tissues in the airway relax and block the flow of air, causing oxygen levels in the blood to drop. This makes the body wake up to normalize breathing, and it can happen several times throughout the night.
The disorder is more common in people who are overweight, which is also a risk factor for prediabetes and the development of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, there seems to be an increased chance of those with OSA to suffer from high blood pressure and heart disease.
Treatment for Sleep Apnea
It’s important to seek treatment for sleep apnea to prevent the potential development of additional health complications. A CPAP machine is one of the most common treatments available, but many people complain about the machine being too awkward, uncomfortable, or inconvenient.
Luckily, there are other options available. Your dentist may suggest oral appliance therapy as an alternative to a CPAP machine. The appliances are custom-made for your mouth and are often more comfortable and less bulky.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, seeking treatment is essential to getting better sleep and preventing the potential of developing diabetes. Talk with your dentist about oral appliance therapy as an alternative to a CPAP machine.
About the Author
Dr. Hutto was born and raised in the Baytown area and is passionate about providing its residents with the best care. He graduated from the University of Texas Dental School in Houston and went on to open his own practice in Baytown. He’s pursued advanced education at the Seattle Institute and The Dawson Institute for Learning. Dr. Hutto is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. If you have questions about treatment for sleep apnea, visit his website or give him a call at (281) 422-8249.