Obesity is among the leading risk factors for the development and worsening of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition with intermittent nighttime breathing cessation. As an individual gains weight, particularly in the upper airway and neck, fat buildup causes the airway to tighten. The airway is also more prone to collapse while asleep, which causes breathing to be interrupted. Moreover, the excess of fat in the abdominal area reduces lung capacity and the flow of air into the lungs, which complicates the respiratory mechanism of the body while asleep. The lower muscle tone in the neck and throat when asleep also causes collapse of the airway.
Common signs of sleep apnea in obese individuals include heavy noisy snoring, night gasping or choking, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, decreased concentration, and mood swings. The symptoms have a direct impact on daily activities because the constant disruption of sleep causes fatigue, mental disorganization, and mood change. Sleep apnea caused by obesity is linked with various life-threatening medical complications such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and depression.
