If you have type 2 diabetes, then you’re probably used to making lifestyle changes required to manage your condition like watching what you eat and being more physically active. Did you know, though, that sleep also impacts your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar? Unfortunately, that means that those with sleep apnea might have some additional difficulties to contend with. Keep reading to learn more about the relationship between this condition and your type 2 diabetes, and how your dentist can help!
Sleep and Blood Pressure
Under normal circumstances, your body repeats several sleep cycles every night that include various phases of sleep. The different stages are responsible for storing memories, repairing muscles, and refreshing your systems. For example, during deep sleep your brain waves slow down, and your muscle tone, pulse, and breathing rate decrease. This allows your blood pressure to fall which is important for type 2 diabetes because it contributes to heart disease.
When you have sleep apnea, however, these sleep cycles are repeatedly interrupted as your breathing pauses and restarts. This hinders your body’s ability to restore itself which can exacerbate your diabetes.
Sleep and Insulin Resistance
Sleep also helps your system regulate your hormones which is an essential function if you have type 2 diabetes. This is because your pancreas does not produce enough insulin which is the hormone that determines the movement of blood sugar into your cells.
If you’re not getting adequate rest at night, then your body is therefore less able to manage your blood sugar. According to the CDC, at least 7 hours of sleep is ideal for most individuals. In one study that monitored adults who had prediabetes or were recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, researchers learned that sleeping fewer than 5 hours or longer than 8 hours per night could lead to a higher A1C level, which measures the amount of glucose (or sugar) in your blood over the last 3 months.
How Your Dentist Can Help
It’s been discovered that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the main causes of fragmented sleep for those with type 2 diabetes. Thankfully, your dentist can help you get a full night’s rest. First, they’ll have you participate in a sleep study to officially diagnose sleep apnea if you haven’t already completed one.
Then, depending on what sleep disorder you have, they can provide treatment options. In many cases, oral appliances are used to slightly shift your jaw forward when you lie down at night. This prevents your soft tissues from collapsing and blocking your airways. In other instances, a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is used to resolve your issues. It consists of a mask that’s worn over your nose to stream compressed air into your lungs. This also opens your airways and keeps them from becoming obstructed.
Call your dentist today so they can help get your z’s, and type 2 diabetes, back under control!
About the Practice
At Star Sleep & Wellness in Dallas, patients benefit from a team of multiple board-certified sleep specialists who have years of experience addressing issues like sleep apnea. They can work with you to complete a sleep study as well as offer patient-focused, comprehensive treatment plans. They’ll take the time to get to know your unique circumstances to try to improve your overall wellness. If you’d like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (844) 409-4657.