Sleep Apnea and Type 2 Diabetes: Learn Their Connection and What You Can Do

Do you have trouble controlling your diabetes? Are you constantly waking up in the middle of the night? You might be surprised to learn there is a connection between the two. If you suffer from sleep apnea in Weyauwega and battle Type 2 diabetes, you could be at risk for developing much more severe health-related problems. Since November is National Diabetes Month, let’s find out what you can do to improve your overall health and achieve a better night’s sleep.

How Are Diabetes and Sleep Apnea Connected?

Patients who are overweight are at a much higher risk of developing sleep apnea. The reason is that the tissues in the neck and throat can fall back onto the airway and create a blockage, causing ceased breathing. When a person has excess tissue around the neck area, it makes it more likely that they will experience sleep apnea.

These individuals are also at a higher risk for diabetes because of an increase in blood sugar levels. What causes this? While there are many different reasons, two of the most common include stress and sleep deprivation. When stress is present, hormones are released that can lead to glucose entering the liver. When this happens, especially if over a long period of time, blood sugar levels can rise and lead to the body resisting insulin. Thus, the development of Type 2 diabetes.

How to Find Out if You Have Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is not always easy to diagnose or treat, especially if you live alone. If you have someone who can tell you if you stop breathing at night, you have an advantage, but if not, there are other ways you can tell if you might have sleep apnea, including:

• Insomnia
• Chronic fatigue
• Moodiness
• Forgetfulness
• Low libido
• Morning headaches

If you think you may have this common sleep disorder, it is best if you have a sleep study conducted, which will properly diagnose whether you have sleep apnea or not.

What Are Some Treatment Options?

While a CPAP machine can be successful in treating sleep apnea, many patients find that it is too bulky and uncomfortable, causing them to forgo using it. Fortunately, there is another solution – oral appliance therapy. These small, oral devices are customized to fit your mouth comfortably. By gently shifting your jaw forward, it keeps your facial tissues from relaxing, allowing your airway to remain open throughout the night.

This non-invasive therapy makes it a more enjoyable and comfortable experience for patients who are in need of a restful night’s sleep.

Apart from treating your sleep apnea, it is advised that you speak with your doctor about ways to manage your Type 2 diabetes, especially by eating a well-balanced, nutrient-filled diet and exercising.

Don’t let diabetes and sleep apnea get you down. Take the appropriate steps to receive a diagnosis and proper treatment, and before you know it, you’ll achieve better overall health as well as begin to get the rest you need to function in your day-to-day life.

About the Author
Dr. William Twohig, DDS, has dedicated the last 20 of his 40 years of practicing dentistry searching for alternative methods to offer his patients. Working with a large group of natural practitioners, chiropractors, acupuncturists, traditional doctors, and specialists, he and his staff practice a natural and holistic approach. To find out how we can help you, visit our website or call (920) 867-3101.