Every night, millions of Americans miss out on countless hours of sleep because of sleep apnea. This condition can be quite problematic! Not only is your body unable to get enough rest, but other serious health problems can develop if you don’t seek treatment, including fatigue, memory loss, heart disease, and even diabetes in some cases! Continue reading to learn more from your dentist about the existing link between sleep apnea and prediabetes, along with some tips for getting a better night’s sleep.
What Does Sleep Apnea Have to Do with Prediabetes?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), one of the most common types of sleep apnea, is characterized by blockage in your airway while you sleep. When this happens, your body must exit deep sleep and wake up to normalize your breathing pattern. However, this interrupts your sleep cycle and prevents your body from resting and healing the daily wear and tear of your cells. But it can also cause additional problems.
Researchers at the University of Hertfordshire recently uncovered a link between poor quality of sleep and an increased risk of prediabetic patients developing type two diabetes. In the trials, the patients who reported poor quality of sleep also tended to have higher blood sugar levels. And when your blood sugar levels are up, your risk of developing diabetes also goes up. This means that untreated sleep apnea actively increases your risk of full-blown diabetes, as it can gradually increase your blood sugar levels!
Tips for Improving the Quality of Your Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep should be a top priority! Your body needs sleep to recover and stay at peak-functionality, but also to regulate things like your blood sugar levels. That said, here are some practical things to consider that can help improve the quality of your sleep:
- Undergo a sleep test – This is a noninvasive procedure performed by a sleep doctor (not your average dentist) and can determine if sleep apnea is causing your sleep disruption.
- Seek sleep apnea treatment – If you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea, your dentist can provide you with treatment options including oral appliances, CPAP machines and more.
- Make necessary lifestyle adjustments – Sometimes a healthier diet and regular exercise can improve blood sugar levels that have been affected by sleep apnea.
- Address other causes of poor sleep – If there are other things causing your sleep disruption, address them. Sometimes a new mattress or a quieter room is a simple yet effective solution.
Though there are many reasons for not getting enough rest, sleep apnea is often a common culprit. However, by seeking treatment and quickly getting your condition under control, you won’t just start getting a good night’s sleep again; you’ll actively ward off serious health concerns like diabetes.
About the Practice
Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry is proud to provide an elite level of care for patients and families in the Ponte Vedra Beach area! The practice is led by the elite duo of Dr. Kristopher R. Harth and Dr. Eric. L. Townsend, who both have several years of experience and expertise in a wide range of fields. They are pleased to offer many available services, including sleep apnea therapy. If you have any questions about sleep apnea or would like to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact the practice through their website or by phone: (904) 285-7711.