With a new year comes a time for renewed optimism. During this time of year, it seems as if everyone is focusing on ways to improve themselves with a New Year’s resolution. One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is some variation of pledging to live healthier by losing weight. For some, it’s a promise to eat less, for others it’s to exercise more.
No matter how a person wants to do it, losing weight brings a full complement of health benefits, including reducing the risk for sleep apnea. CPAP Central wants you to be aware of the dangers that come with obesity and how they can increase your risk for sleep apnea.
Obesity is a Leading Risk Factor for Sleep Apnea
More than half of Americans are considered overweight or obese, and one of the most common forms of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea, which causes the muscles of the throat to relax and block the airway when a person is asleep. One of the top risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea is obesity, and losing weight through diet and exercise can reduce your risk.
The Catch 22 of Obesity and Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes you to lose sleep, which means you have less energy during the day when you’re awake. If you have less energy, you’re not as likely to want to work out. Exercise is an essential element to losing weight. Without exercise, it becomes less likely that a person will lose weight, which will only increase their risk for dealing with sleep apnea. Getting into a regular routine can help you find structure so that you’re ready to sleep every night and exercise during the day.
If you do have sleep apnea, CPAP Central can make sure your get the CPAP machines and supplies you need to sleep better at night and give yourself more energy. Get in touch with us to speak with one of our experts to find out how your CPAP treatment can begin today.