CBS News reports that roughly one-third of all Americans
don’t sleep for the recommended seven hours each night. But the data suggest
that the reason a man might toss and turn is likely different than a woman’s,
and the predisposition to obstructive sleep
apnea is a factor.
Men are more likely than women to suffer from sleep apnea.
The CBS story attributes the higher risk factor to “anatomical differences,”
specifically more neck fat. However, the neck isn’t the only part of the body that
could create an obstruction in the airway.
If these structures have higher fat deposits or are consistently enlarged, the likelihood of
apnea episodes could be higher:
- Tongue
- Tonsils
- Adenoids
- Uvula
- Soft palate
Women can also suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. However,
this isn’t the leading sleep issue women experience.
Instead, according to the CBS report, women are more likely
to experience shorter periods of sleep, as well as higher instances of
nighttime insomnia and fatigue the following day. Much of this is attributable
to hormone changes.
If you believe you’re
at risk for obstructive sleep apnea, or poor quality sleep is affecting your
health, please contact an experienced sleep doctor in your community or call 1 (866) 727-6275 (1-8-NO-PAP-MASK) today for a one-on-one evaluation.