Obstructive Sleep Apnea is prevalent in 48% of Diabetes patients.
Source: Einhorn D, Stewart DA, Erman MK, Gordon N, Philis-Tsimikas A, Casal E. Prevalence of sleep apnea in population of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Endocr Pract 2007;13:355-362.
We spend 1/3rd of our life – Sleeping; a time when there could be several manifestations suggesting a dangerous possibility called ‘Obstructive Sleep Apnea’ (OSA), a sleep disorder characterized by pause in breathing (Apnea) which usually resumes with a loud gasp, snort or body jerk. It is one of the most undiagnosed and untreated conditions worldwide.
OSA is highly prevalent in India with 12 adults in every 100 suffering from this problem. It is found in all the age groups and genders. OSA could be one of the causes for underachievement (academic/work), irritability, poor concentration and memory in children and adults.
OSA lowers the oxygen supply to vital organs of the body during sleep which causes several health complications:
Heart Disease
Hypertension
Obesity
Diabetes
Depression
Stroke
Thus do not ignore if you snore, have morning headaches, increased daytime tiredness or witnessed apneas, waking up from sleep gasping for air, unexplained weight gain etc. as this may indicate you could have underlying sleep apnea.
“Sleep Apnea diagnosis can be more a blessing, as timely treatment will markedly improve the quality of life and reduce health complications.” says Dr Shripal Shrishrimal, an American Board Certified Sleep Specialist. He founded Keystone Center for Sleep Disorders with a vision of ‘Healthy Sleep for every individual’. He has treated thousands of patients in USA and India who are now experiencing a renewed energy.