Sleep apnea, a disorder that is alarmingly common yet under-diagnosed, has far-reaching effects on the human body. One of the lesser-known consequences is its impact on bone health. This blog will analyze the impact of sleep apnea on bone health in great detail, helping you understand why it’s a concern that needs our immediate attention.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated disruptions in breathing during sleep. The Bend Headache Center in Oregon defines it as a condition that affects 22 million Americans, with up to 90% of cases undiagnosed. It manifests as loud, frequent snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep. While it often affects men over 40, particularly those overweight—everyone is at risk.
Sleep Apnea and Its Impact on Bones
Most would be surprised to learn that sleep apnea and bone health have a significant, though invisible, connection. Sleep apnea can indeed directly impact your bone health.
Osteoporosis: The Hidden Link
Numerous studies point to osteoporosis as one of the significant hidden connections between sleep apnea and bone health. Over time, untreated sleep apnea may increase the chances of osteoporosis development—a condition that weakens bones over time, making them brittle and more prone to fractures and breaks.
Connecting the Dots: How Sleep Apnea Affects Bone Health
Sleep apnea leads to multiple health complications, one of which is the decline in bone health. But how does this happen?
Lack of Oxygen
During a sleep apnea episode, airflow stops, causing oxygen levels in the blood to drop. This hypoxia can harm bone health as bones require oxygen for rebuilding and strengthening.
Hormonal Imbalance
Sleep apnea interferes with several hormones: it alters metabolism, disturbs the hunger hormones, and impacts growth hormones, essential for bone health.
Consequences of Neglected Bone Health
If left untreated, the impact of sleep apnea on bones can be life-altering, with effects ranging from minor discomfort to severe disability.
Fixing the Problem: Solutions at Bend Headache Center
The Bend Headache Center recognizes the complicated link between sleep apnea and bone health and offers non-surgical and drug-free solutions. These treatments focus not only on alleviating the symptoms of sleep apnea but also on mitigating its long-term effects on bone health.
