Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Does Sleep Apnea Make Fatty Liver Disease Worse?

Though both conditions have been linked to excess weight, researchers were long of the opinion that there was no connection between sleep apnea and fatty liver disease. However, a recent study of obese subjects with sleep apnea symptoms found a strong correlation between the sleep disorder and fatty liver.

Two-thirds of the patients evaluated during the study showed signs of fatty liver disease. The patients with severe sleep apnea symptoms tended also to suffer from more extreme cases of fatty liver.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is a condition where, quite simply, fat deposits build up in the liver. Most patients experience no ill effects from the extra fat, but others might suffer inflammation of the liver and, over time, the development of scar tissue.

If fatty liver disease progresses, possible symptoms might include: 

  • Pain in and around the abdomen where the liver is located (upper middle and/or upper right)
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Dark patches on the skin
In advanced cases of fatty liver disease, permanent damage to the organ can occur. Liver failure and cancer of the liver are also more likely.

Sleep apnea can negatively affect the health and function of many parts of the body. The liver is no exception, which is why it’s vital for patients suffering from sleep apnea symptoms to seek treatment from an experienced professional.

Please call 1 (866) 727-6275 (1-8-NO-PAP-MASK) today to find a sleep specialist in your area.

http://www.ihateheadaches.org/