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.