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Obesity in women can trigger several unpleasant conditions and diseases. One of the dangerous problems associated with obesity is sleep disorders (mainly apnea).
The terminology “apnea” means the body temporarily stops breathing. In most cases it is happening when something blocked the airway to the lungs – it could be excess tissue in the mouth or throat, it could be the tongue and/or over sized tonsils and/or relaxing and constricting of airway muscles. If you are obese or overweight, you could have excess weight on the throat and chest – this can trigger apnea.
Scientists discovered correlation between obesity and apnea – increasing frequency of obesity provoking increased frequency of apnea in women.
Women suffering from apnea very often mention also morning headaches, listlessness, constant fatigue and moodiness.
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It is important to know that obese women with apnea can easily fall asleep almost anywhere - while watching television, during friends’ chatting, during reading, etc. But the most dangerous is falling asleep during driving (especially during long evening driving).
Why obesity trigger apnea?
One of the reasons why obesity is one of the most significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea is the accumulation of excess body fat on the neck and chest. Those body fats on the neck and chest can compress and constrict airways. As a person gets more overweight, the greater the risks of developing sleep apnea and other sleep disorders.
In most cases obesity trigger so called “obstructive sleep apnea” which means that the airway in obese women is obstructed with something – it could be enlarged tonsils and/or increased fat in the neck. Many medical professionals can predict apnea during obesity by just looking at the neck. It is well known that women neck circumference of 16 inches or greater are more likely to be affected by apnea.
Obesity in combination with apnea can provoke several body dysfunctions and health problems.
Obesity, apnea and women health
Sleep apnea during obesity usually interrupt the normal sleeping cycle and as a result, women often suffer from fatigue, daytime sleepiness, headaches, difficult concentration, memory loss and even depression.
Medical professionals discovered that sleep apnea during obesity can also trigger some serious health conditions:
 Heart Diseases
It is well known that sleep apnea during obesity causes a drop of oxygen levels in the blood and low oxygen levels can cause the heart to develop abnormal heart rhythms. According to cardiologists, abnormal heart rhythms can trigger heart diseases as well as stroke.
Hypertension (Increased Blood Pressure)
Sudden drops of oxygen levels in the blood caused by sleep apnea during obesity can provoke increased in blood pressure. It was noted that obese women suffering from sleep apnea are at increased risk to develop hypertension – about 2-4 times greater when normal healthy population. The more severe the sleep apnea is the greater risk of developing hypertension.
Glaucoma
Several studies show that women suffering from obesity and sleep apnea are at higher risk for glaucoma and optic nerve swelling (papilledema).
Obesity and sleeping apnea - Solutions
Healthy lifestyle – healthy food, healthy eating habits, regular exercises, no smoking, no drug use.
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SONA FDA-Cleared Anti-Snore and Mild Sleep Apnea Pillow
Specialty pillow designed to help with snoring and mild sleep apnea
Filled with SofLoft fiber for firm support and consistent shaping
Contoured design cradles the head to create optimal breathing alignment
Removable 100-percent cotton cover with stripe pattern
10 by 27 by 12 inches; made in U.S.A.; pillow and cover machine washable
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5 Inch CPAP Pillow - Recomended for clients over 200lbs
Enjoy the freedom to sleep in any position. The pillow’s unique, pressure-free zones promote contact-free CPAP use while its anatomic shape improves airway alignment and encourages proper support. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this quality product is made of highly resilient, cushiony and stable material, ensuring that the pressure-free areas hold up against the weight of your head while still providing a cushioned sleeping surface. Available in 3 height levels to accommodate individual needs.
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Science of Sleep SleePap Pillow for Sleep Apnea
America's #1 selling pillow for C-Pap users! Use of the SleePap pillow is necessary when you use your mask & air hosing in that with the pillow's special design, there is no interference from the mask when on your back or your side. Compliance & comfort are the results. Filled with soft polyester, & with its own zip off cover, it is perfect for sleep apnea sufferers everywhere.
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Obesity, Sleep disorders and NightWave Sleep Assistant
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NightWave Sleep Assistant
- For falling asleep naturally; quiets the mind and body by guiding you through a pre-sleep relaxation routine that will change your attitude about falling asleep
- For people who experience common insomnia due to stress, an overactive mind, feelings of agitation, pain, shift work or jet lag; even helps children stay in bed and fall asleep by giving them a simple routine to fall asleep
- Silent, completely natural, non-invasive, and requires no headphones, wires or masks; soft light is dim and soothing - not associated with bright light therapy
- Safe and effective for all ages; original version of nightwave does not come with a carrying case
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