Obesity is often linked to type 2 diabetes. Since obesity is also prevalent in sleep apnea, individuals with type 2 diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of suffering from sleep apnea as well. In fact, approximately 30 to 35% of people with type 2 diabetes also experience sleep apnea. If left untreated, sleep apnea can worsen their condition.
While the exact nature of the relationship between these two conditions is still not fully understood, their association has serious health implications. Moreover, both type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea are strongly correlated with cardiovascular diseases.
Sleep apnea is increasingly being recognized as a condition that should be treated as part of cardiovascular disease prevention. For those with type 2 diabetes, treating sleep apnea is even more essential, as they are already classified as high-risk for cardiovascular disease.
If you experience any of the following symptoms related to sleep apnea, you should consult your doctor and request a sleep apnea test:
- Disruptive snoring
- Observed apnea episodes by a partner
- Nighttime choking or gasping
- Excessive fatigue upon waking
- Low energy levels
- Feeling unrefreshed after sleep
- Daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Mood disturbances, anxiety, or depression
- Memory and/or concentration issues
