Sleep Apnea And Weight Gain
The quarantine 15. The popular slogan has been roaming around the social media world in a 2020 take on the Freshman 15 that many first-year college students are accustomed to seeing after their first dorm life experience. With gyms closed for many months, athleisure wear becoming the new norm, and the lifestyle of constantly being at home with no agenda has taken the toll on many. Those who suffer from sleep apnea need to be particularly mindful of the extra weight that may have crept on during quarantine.
Sleep apnea and weight gain is like a double-edged sword and viscous cycle in that weight gain can cause and worsen sleep apnea and sleep apnea can cause weight gain. If you are predisposed to this condition, then even a few pounds can create a different sleep for you. When extra weight is added to your body, it evenly distributes and, even though it might be difficult to see, there is extra weight in the neck, narrowing the airway when you lay down to sleep and causing apnea issues. If you are dealing with an episode of sleep apnea, the lack of sleep can cause hormonal issues in the body, affecting different levels and adding to the increased body fat.
One easy way to help with weight concerns is to add some extra movement to your day. This can be done with something as simple as a walk. Even with gyms reopening, many are still feeling uncertain about returning to regular exercise programs in a confined space. A morning walk in the park is a great way to get some movement. There are also fabulous walking videos on YouTube that can be streamed at home anytime. Be sure to do your walking in the morning, or at least three hours before bedtime to give your body a chance to regulate after exercise.
At Center for TMJ & Sleep Solutions NW, we are here to help you with any sleep apnea issues that may have arisen due to recent weight gain. If you are in the Auburn & Silverdale, WA area and have any questions about how weight gain can affect sleep apnea, please call our office for more information.
