Sleep apnea and obesity are two commonly intertwined health conditions. If left untreated, these medical conditions may lead to severe health implications. Bend Headache Center, located in Bend, Oregon, provides non-surgical sleep apnea treatments that prove to be effective alternatives to traditional CPAP machines.
The Definition of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a severe sleep disorder that impacts approximately 22 million Americans. This condition involves interruptions in breathing during sleep due to muscle relaxation, leading to pronounced health problems. It can affect any age, but overweight men over the age of 40 are most commonly impacted.
The Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Frequent symptoms of sleep apnea include heavy snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and never feeling fully rested. If left unchecked, this condition can cause chronic headaches and migraines, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and even strokes.
The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Obesity
Obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea, with nearly 80 percent of individuals diagnosed with sleep apnea being overweight or obese. These statistics suggest a strong correlation between sleep apnea and obesity. The excess weight forces the airways to narrow, thus causing breathing interruptions.
Obesity: A Spotlight on the Epidemic
Obesity represents a noticeable health concern in America, affecting more than one-third of the adult population. It’s not only linked to sleep apnea, but also chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Treating Sleep Apnea in the Obese
At the Bend Headache Center, we treat sleep apnea with patient-specific, non-surgical methods. Our unique approach aims to manage and curb the symptoms of sleep apnea, thus offering our patients a holistic approach to their health.
A Sneak Peek into Our Treatment Modalities
- Bite Therapy: This method utilizes a dental splint to help steady the jaw and prevent the tongue from blocking the breathing airways.
- Nutrition: We consider diet a critical aspect in the management of both obesity and sleep apnea. Our nutritionists draft customized, balanced meal plans for our patients.
- Lifestyle Modification: This includes regular exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol reduction to reduce obesity and manage sleep apnea.
The Positive Impact of Treatment
Implementing these treatment modalities can significantly improve the severity of sleep apnea and reduce obesity, concurrently improving the overall quality of life. Patients experience lower daytime fatigue, improved mood, and better concentration.
A Personalized Approach for Each Individual
Different people have different needs, which is why at Bend Headache Center, we respect each patient’s individual needs and tailor a treatment modality that suits them best.
