Health Corner

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is closely linked with obesity, yet many people are unaware of how serious this condition can be.

Why Does Obesity Increase the Risk of Sleep Apnea?

Obese individuals—especially those with excess fat around the neck, chin, and abdomen—are more likely to experience airway compression during sleep. This narrowing or temporary “collapse” of the upper airway leads to breathing interruptions.
When airflow becomes restricted, breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night, a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea.
Studies show that obese people are several times more likely to develop sleep apnea than those with a healthy weight, and the risk is particularly high in those with abdominal obesity or a noticeable belly.

How Does Sleep Apnea Affect the Body?

• Cardiovascular strain: Each pause in breathing forces the heart to work harder, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

• Daytime fatigue and cognitive issues: Poor sleep quality causes drowsiness, irritability, and poor concentration, raising safety concerns—especially when driving.

• Metabolic impact: Lack of sleep disrupts hormones that regulate appetite, making people hungrier and creating a vicious cycle where weight gain worsens sleep apnea.

Common Warning Signs to Watch For

• Loud, irregular snoring with pauses in breathing lasting a few seconds to over ten seconds.

• Gasping or choking episodes during sleep, sometimes waking up abruptly and feeling breathless or tight-chested.

• Morning headaches, dry mouth, or sore throat, with a feeling of unrested sleep.

• Excessive daytime sleepiness, irritability, or poor focus, even after a seemingly full night’s sleep.

How to Manage Obesity and Sleep Apnea

Weight management:

• Maintain a balanced diet—reduce oily, sugary foods and eat more fruits and vegetables.

• Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.

Better sleep habits:

• Avoid heavy meals and alcohol before bedtime.

• Try sleeping on your side instead of on your back.

Medical treatments:

• Undergo a sleep study to assess the severity of the condition.

• For moderate to severe cases, using a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine can keep the airway open during sleep.

Obesity and sleep apnea can seriously harm heart health and reduce quality of life. If you experience loud snoring, pauses in breathing, or persistent daytime fatigue, seek medical evaluation early to identify the cause and prevent potential complications.