Does Having Type 2 Diabetes Increase Your Risk for Sleep Apnea?

Do you have type 2 diabetes? If so, you’re far from alone. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 34 million Americans struggle with this condition. You probably already know that it’s important to control your blood sugar levels. Otherwise, you could be at risk for several other health problems. Recent research has suggested that sleep apnea may be one of them. To learn more about the relationships between type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea in Weatherford, and how your dentist can help, continue reading.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders in the United States. Over 18 million Americans have been diagnosed with is, according to the American Sleep Association. While there are different types of sleep apnea, it’s most often the result of the airway becoming obstructed during the night, typically by tissues in the mouth and throat. Your body then wakes you up in order to clear the obstruction. If this occurs several times a night, you may not get the restful sleep you need. Common symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, and waking up with a headache or sore throat.

How Type 2 Diabetes Affects Sleep Apnea

While more research is needed, a 2013 study found that type 2 diabetics have a 50% chance of being diagnosed with sleep apnea. One theory between the connection is that those with diabetes are more likely to be overweight, which increases the risk of airway blockage.

Sleep apnea can also worsen diabetes symptoms. Frequently waking up throughout the night releases stress hormones that raise your blood sugar. Additionally, untreated sleep apnea can leave you vulnerable to numerous health concerns, like high blood pressure and heart disease. That’s why it’s recommended that people with type 2 diabetes seek treatment if they suspect they have sleep apnea.

How Your Dentist Can Help

Believe it or not, your dentist, not your primary care doctor, might be best suited to treat sleep apnea. After all, their comprehensive knowledge of the oral region makes them uniquely qualified to address the root of the problem. They can likely administer an at-home sleep test to achieve a proper diagnosis. Plus, you may not need to wear a loud, clunky breathing mask to get restful sleep. Treatment today usually involves the use of a small, comfortable oral appliance that gently opens the airway.

Since sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed, it’s important to keep an eye out for the common symptoms, especially if you have type 2 diabetes. If any of the signs sound familiar to you, then seek out treatment right away!

About the Author

Dr. Deborah A. Romack earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1998 from the Baylor College of Dentistry. Since then, she has taken extensive post-graduate training courses in the treatment of dental sleep disorders, including sleep apnea. She also maintains an active membership in the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. If you have type 2 diabetes or are looking for a sleep dentist in Weatherford, TX, then contact Dr. Romack through her website or by phone at (817) 594-3806.