Will Losing Weight Cure Sleep Apnea?

Aside from the outward symptoms of sleep apnea what happens to the body during sleep apnea is far more scary. The body is actually being deprived of oxygen. To be precise, the brain is being deprived of oxygen, as well as the other bodily organs. That’s not good. Now, since being overweight is one of the risk factors for sleep apnea, one of the most common questions that your dentist in Burlington, MA gets is, will losing weight cure sleep apnea. If you need to lose weight, then great—go for it. But it may not cure your sleep apnea.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This is when the throat muscles relax and block the airway, and frankly, it’s more likely to happen in individuals carrying extra weight.

The Role of Weight in Sleep Apnea

Excess weight, especially around the neck and upper body, can put pressure on the airway, making it more likely to collapse during sleep. For people with moderate to severe OSA, losing weight may help to alleviate symptoms because there will be less pressure on this area.

Can Weight Loss Cure Sleep Apnea?

But even though the scales may tell you good news, you might not have the good news you’re looking for as far as sleep apnea. Some people continue to experience symptoms even after losing a substantial amount of weight. This is because other factors, such as genetics, airway structure, or pre-existing medical conditions, can contribute to sleep apnea. It’s all a bit complicated, right?

Your dentist at Advanced Dental Care may have some treatment options for you regarding your sleep apnea in Burlington, MA. Contact us today to learn more.