Sleep apnea results in decreased oxygen flow to the body, poor sleep, and an elevated heart rate. It can lead to higher blood sugar levels and increases the risk of serious cardiovascular complications. Do these symptoms sound familiar? Unfortunately, it could be because these factors are also closely related to type 2 diabetes. This connection is not just hypothetical; in fact, a recent study has found evidence linking sleep apnea and heightened risk of diabetes. 

The Study

In a study released in June of 2014, Canadian scientists researched over 8,600 test subjects suffering from sleep apnea and found an increased proclivity for developing diabetes.

The researchers monitored subjects who were diagnosed with sleep apnea between 1994 and 2010 but did not yet have diabetes. They were then followed through May of 2011. In forming their conclusions, the scientists adjusted for known risk factors including age, sex, and weight. 

The results were compelling. During the follow-up period, over 11% of patients developed diabetes. People with severe sleep apnea had a 30% higher chance of developing diabetes than those without the sleep disorder. Those with moderate sleep apnea had a 23% higher risk of developing the condition. 

Doctor Kendzerska, lead author of the study at the University of Toronto, concluded that, “After adjusting for other potential causes, we were able to demonstrate a significant association between OSA severity and the risk of developing diabetes.” Additionally, scientists found that, “the initial severity of the [sleep apnea] predicted the subsequent risk for incident diabetes.”

This study is significant because, though other experiments have investigated this correlation before, they have been smaller with a shorter follow-up period.

What causes this connection?

In general, sleep problems and high blood sugar are interrelated. The conditions share risk factors, such as obesity and age. People with one are more likely to suffer from the other. In fact, 7 in 10 people with diabetes also have obstructive sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may worsen diabetes. A study released in February of 2014 found that when sleep apnea disrupts deep REM sleep, it can seriously impair blood sugar control. There’s also a more logical connection: people who are not getting enough sleep tend to seek out other sources of energy, meaning that they eat unhealthy food that raises their blood sugar.

The Silver Lining

If we know about the relationship between the two health issues, it will be easier to treat and diagnose them. For instance, doctors recommend that all diabetes patients have a sleep test to discover sleep apnea. In addition to enjoying the benefits of a more rested lifestyle, diabetes patients who treat their sleep apnea using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine can improve their glycemic control and glucose metabolism, helping to control their diabetes.

Also, people with sleep apnea should be aware that they are at increased risk of diabetes, which could inspire them to improve their diet and exercise regime.

Above all, it is important to talk to a doctor if you suspect that you are at risk of either condition. If you think you might have sleep apnea, contact us and we will help you set up a sleep study! 

Please leave your thoughts in the comments!

Resources: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Sleep Education, DLife, WebMD, Science Daily, New York Times

Photo Credit: Alan Levine