If you have sleep apnea, then you may be well aware of how it can impact your rest. You won’t be able to enjoy the undisturbed nights you deserve, but what can you do about it? As you look into solutions, you might find that obesity is a risk factor for this condition. You may then wonder if weight loss drugs can be used to treat it, so here’s what you need to know about them and this disorder.
How Is Weight and Sleep Apnea Related?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the more common form of this condition, but it occurs when your throat muscles block your airways. It causes you to stop breathing multiple times for several seconds every night. It may happen when you start to relax, but the weight around your neck can also lead to them collapsing.
Can Weight Loss Drugs Treat My Sleep Apnea?
In short, weight-loss medications may be helpful with sleep apnea, but there is a bit more to it. You shouldn’t use them as a sole treatment, but rather in tandem with exercising and a healthy diet. By reducing fat deposits around your airway, you will be able to lessen the obstruction and improve oxygen levels. You may also have more daytime energy and improved blood pressure and insulin sensitivity.
Weight is also different from person to person. Some may carry it around their belly more, while others carry it on their chest, shoulders, or neck. Those who have it the most around the latter often have the worst symptoms, so they may likely benefit from these types of drugs. However, even losing 10% to 15% of your body weight may help your symptoms.
Will I Still Need Professional Treatment for My Sleep Apnea?
Although weight loss drugs may be helpful in lessening the impact sleep apnea has on your rest, it’s important you still get professional treatment. These medications aren’t a quick fix, so it will take time for you to start to see the improvements mentioned above.
The good news is your dentist is here to give you the tools you need to help you out. You may get a customized oral appliance that’s designed to gently bring your lower jaw forward to keep your airways open. A CPAP machine can also be beneficial in some cases, but your provider can let you know which one is right for you.
In the end, weight loss medications can aid in your sleep apnea, but they may not treat it. By talking with your dentist, you can learn more about what you can do to get the restful nights you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. David Drummond is a compassionate sleep dentist helping the Lawton community treat their sleep apnea. By getting you a diagnosis, you can then find out the next steps you need to lessen your symptoms. Dr. Drummond may recommend oral appliance therapy, a CPAP machine, or a combination of both to help you get the quality rest you need. If you are interested in knowing how you can treat this condition, schedule an appointment or call his office at (580) 355-0344.