Obstructive sleep
apnea (OSA) and obesity often coexist, and both conditions are also risk
factors for high blood pressure among other health problems.
While the effects of
weight loss on both OSA and hypertension have been studied independently,
recent research at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine
focused on the potential impacts of weight loss in conjunction with continuous
positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. The findings indicate that a
combination of weight loss and sleep apnea
treatment can significantly lower blood pressure in patients with OSA.
Researchers found that
complementing CPAP treatment with weight loss in patients with obstructive
sleep apnea was more effective than either therapy individually. While this
outcome may seem obvious, the study’s authors emphasized that their research
indicates the importance of addressing both sleep apnea and obesity.
It is also important to
note that while the study monitored patients who consistently used CPAP
treatment for 24 weeks of therapy, many patients discontinue CPAP treatment
before it has a chance to be effective. CPAP requires patients to wear a mask
as they sleep; this mask is connected to a device that circulates oxygen and
helps patients maintain an open airway.
But many patients find
the mask uncomfortable and cumbersome, and stop treatment. Fortunately, CPAP is
not the only treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea.
Many people with sleep
apnea have restored healthy, restful sleep with the use of oral appliances. These
comfortable devices are similar to sports mouthguards and are custom-made to
fit your individual bite.
If you or a loved one
suffers from loud, regular snoring or other symptoms of sleep apnea,
a dentist with experience in the field of dental sleep medicine can help you
determine whether you have obstructive sleep apnea and recommend a treatment
option designed for your unique needs.