Sleep Apnea Can Directly Affect Metabolism
When To Talk With A Healthcare Provider
Getting enough sleep has been the crying motto of many healthcare providers. There are numerous reasons as to why, but some recent research regarding sleep apnea and the relation to metabolism might just encourage some to address sleeping issues that are affecting day to day life. Stress hormones, a higher risk of blood pressure, a higher risk of diabetes, weight gain, and an unhealthy rise in blood sugar could very well be causing serious weight gain and a metabolic disturbance. As indicated by studies, even a couple days of failure to catch a decent night's sleep could send negative levels soaring. The effects of sleep apnea are real and should be addressed as soon as possible.
It has been said that up to 30% of adults suffer from some form of obstructive sleep apnea. This means that an individual's airway is closed multiple times during the sleeping period. This can cause serious issues and can even result in death if not addressed. Obese patients were shown to have the more serious issues in relation to sleep apnea, although there is no true weight limit for the condition to take its full effect. Knowing when to seek out professional help for a sleep issue can be trickier than some may believe. If an individual is not waking up during the evening, one may assume that symptoms are from nothing more than stress and a restless sleep. If chronic daytime tiredness and snoring are reported by a fellow bed partner or roommate, it could be time to find a healthcare professional that can assist in getting a better night's sleep and treating a possible sleeping disorder.
Chronic and disruptive snoring are just a few of the symptoms that can be found in patients with sleeping disorders and sleep apnea. Gasping for breath or a choking sound could also be a common issue. Snoring is usually the loudest when one is on the back, although these sounds and issues can come from any position. It should be important to keep in mind that not every single person who snores has sleep apnea or other related issues. Self-diagnosis is not encouraged, as sleep apnea tests require possible diet changes and observations by professionals in the field.
Leaving Sleep Apnea Untreated And Side Effects
If left untreated, sleep apnea can develop into a serious issue that could be irreversible with the damage it can cause. Other not so well known symptoms include but are not limited to memory and learning issues, which can lead to being unable to concentrate on various tasks throughout the day. Headaches throughout the day could also be a symptom, although morning headaches are generally the time of day that these will strike. Anxiety and unexplained feelings of depression could also be from sleeping too little, with the added stress on the body taking its toll night after night.
While some dry mouth might just be related to hydration issues and other problems, sleep apnea has been known to cause a severe parched feeling in some, in addition to chapped lips and a sore throat, While it is less common in children and teenagers, the distress of sleep apnea can wreak havoc on the body's natural metabolism throughout any stage of life. With the rise of sleep apnea and problems related to the metabolism, it can be most beneficial to have different types of sleep tests done. There are two types of recognized sleep apnea disorders. Obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea are both detrimental to a person's health if left untreated. Since the symptoms can mimic one another, it is important to find the right tests that can offer support.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common of the two. This type of sleep apnea is a blockage of the airway, which is generally the tissue in the back of the throat that can collapse during the sleeping process. The second form, central sleep apnea, is when the airway is not blocked, yet the brain fails to tell the muscles to breathe. This is known to cause severe issues in the respiratory control center. Males are far more likely than women to experience sleep apnea, although it can happen to anyone. Being overweight can cause problems to worsen, especially over time if left untreated. Metabolism monitoring at any age can be vital, but especially for those with sleep apnea issues.
Weight issues are generally focused upon with overweight and obese individuals, but anyone facing problems with sleep apnea should have a metabolic screening test if concerns still exist. Without proper treatment of sleep apnea, conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease could worsen over time. If the symptoms are not treated, tissue damage may occur. When fatty acids in the blood were measured by researchers, it was found that these levels had risen in those with more severe cases of sleep apnea. In addition, blood sugar levels and cortisol levels were increased.
Foods To Better Help Those With Sleep Apnea Find Better Rest
While there's not a cure for sleep apnea of any form, eating better and getting the right nutrients could assist in improving the body's natural metabolism and immune system. Oatmeal is just one of the many options that can help with sleep and is packed full of complex carbohydrates. A diet can make all the difference in patients with sleep apnea and other related conditions. Although they have been shown to increase the body's natural metabolism, spicy food before bed can impact those who already have damaged throats. For those with gastrointestinal issues, spicy food can be doubly annoying.
Caffeine before bed can cause serious issues, as well. In fact, caffeine consumed even 8 hours before bed can cause serious issues. Foods that can boost metabolism and assist in sleep apnea include but are not limited to, bananas, milk, spinach, peanut butter, and various forms of nuts. Avoiding heavy and greasy foods overall could help, but especially before bedtime is when those foods should be forgone. Sugary sweets and sodas are also culprits in possible sleep apnea symptoms worsening and metabolic problems.
Improving Breathing During The Night
If someone finds themselves winded during the day, it could be related to issues outside of sleep apnea. Even when symptoms are improved, breathing exercises as directed by a healthcare professional is vital to overall health. Discussing proper breathing exercise techniques can be beneficial. Just a few suggested exercises may include targeted throat exercises and yoga related breathing techniques. Falling asleep in front of the television is also not recommended, as this can lead to even more problems with breathing and overall sleep quality. Since sleep occurs in five stages, the third and fourth are viewed as some of the most important stages given the state of rest.
Avoiding any bright light is key in gaining a better night's sleep. Erratic breathing and snoring have the possibility of being improved with diet changes and breathing techniques. Improving sleep can result in a longer, healthier life if the proper steps are taken! It is never too late to start making positive changes in relation to sleep apnea. While some damage may be irreversible, treatment can lessen symptoms and improve the quality of life in many patients suffering from sleep related disorders.
https://medlineplus.gov/news/fullstory_168254.html
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20628881,00.html
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/metabolism/art-20046508
http://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/why-sleep-no-1-most-important-thing-better-body
