4 Responses to “A Link Between Sleep Apnea and Diabetes Confirmed Again”

1. Kaye on December 22nd, 2010 8:24 pm

   I have a friend that has been using a CPAP machine for YEARS, since in his late 30′s and now he is 43. He is said to have mild sleep apnea. He has smoked a pack a day for 25 years but now he has quite and he is losing 30 lbs. Does he have hope to not have to wear the dreaded CPAP machine everynight?

2. Steven Park on December 22nd, 2010 8:58 pm

   Kaye,

   It’s possible, but unlikely. As you get older, your internal throat tissues sag :( People have different responses to losing weight. The lower number you start off with, the more likely it’ll improve if you lose significant weight.

3. Edward E. Bowling, DMD on June 1st, 2011 2:07 pm

   Dr. Park,
   Now what came first, the chicken or the egg? I’ve been snoring since my early teen years, but not diagnosed with diabetes until my mid forties. However, it is significant to note that three other brothers (out of eight children) also have diabetes, but not the two sisters.
   Do you spot any correlations there, or any causes and effects?
   Thank you,
   Dr. Bowling

4. Steven Park on June 1st, 2011 2:13 pm

   Dr. Bowling,

   I admit I’m a bit biased, but you and your siblings probably have similar anatomic facial features (from your parents), so you’re probably predisposed to diabetes to various degrees. Other variables that can increase your risk include diet, level of exercise, stress levels, and other factors that can aggravate obstructive sleep apnea.

Got something to say?