Michelle Sands, Registered Dental Hygienist and Silent Night Therapy’s Sleep Apnea Director, said that diabetes and sleep apnea can exhibit a significant correlation.
"There is a complex relationship between diabetes and sleep apnea," said Sands. "The interplay between diabetes and sleep apnea is a critical area of focus in endocrinology. Sleep apnea's impact on insulin resistance and blood glucose control can significantly worsen diabetes management. Sleep apnea's impact on insulin resistance and blood glucose control can significantly worsen diabetes management."
Diabetes and sleep apnea are two prevalent health conditions that often coexist, creating a complex and interdependent relationship. According to the American Diabetes Association, sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels. This chronic sleep disruption has been linked to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that individuals with sleep apnea are more likely to develop diabetes, suggesting a bidirectional relationship where each condition can exacerbate the other.
Moreover, according to the National Institutes of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, sleep apnea contributes to poor glycemic control in people with diabetes. The intermittent hypoxia (reduced oxygen levels) and sleep fragmentation experienced by those with OSA lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, stress hormone release, and inflammation. These physiological responses can impair glucose metabolism, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels. As a result, individuals with both sleep apnea and diabetes often face greater challenges in managing their diabetes effectively.
"Sleep apnea is a life-threatening condition because it affects your breathing. If your body doesn't get enough oxygen while you're sleeping, it impacts everything in your life. Low oxygen levels can also be linked to difficulties in controlling high blood pressure and diabetes," said Sands. "For diabetes patients who experience sleep disturbances, there is an increased risk of memory issues. In older patients, low oxygen levels may elevate the risk of Alzheimer's dementia." Additionally, she pointed out that diabetic neuropathy, a complication of diabetes, can affect the muscles that control breathing, further contributing to sleep apnea. Thus, managing weight and blood sugar levels is crucial for reducing the risk and severity of sleep apnea in diabetic patients.
Addressing both sleep apnea and diabetes requires a comprehensive approach that targets both conditions simultaneously. For diabetic patients, maintaining optimal blood sugar levels through medication, diet, and exercise is essential. "Our focus on the whole patient extends beyond dental concerns. Before initiating any treatment, we carefully review the patient's medical history which includes screening for conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes which can indicate a potential airway disorder," said Sands. By understanding and managing the intricate relationship between diabetes and sleep apnea, patients can improve their overall quality of life and reduce the risk of complications associated with these chronic diseases.
According to the Silent Night Therapy website, Sands entered the practice in 2011 bringing with her over 25 years of experience as a Registered Dental Hygienist. Currently she holds the position of Sleep Apnea Director.
