Sleep apnea hits diabetic patients

Hyderabad: Sleep apnea is one of the common problems among people who suffer from diabetes and other metabolic diseases and researchers have found a strong link between them.

The problem faced by those suffering from diabetes is that during their sleep there is low level of oxygen in their blood due to which they snore and also get up twice to thrice in the night. Due to frequent urination, their sleep is disturbed and increased stress levels add to the burden.

Dr Sunil Parikh, a senior diabetologist, said, “The burden of diabetes has shifted to younger and productive population due to which the problem is further aggravated. There are high stress levels which affect their insulin levels in the body and deprivation of sleep makes them often cranky. At clinical level we find that the family members complain of these behavioural issues and it is only then that the sleep patterns are understood.”

Experts stated that maintaining a good sleep is important for them as it not only allows the body to rest but also helps manage diabetes better.  Dr Sanjay K, a senior endocrinologist, noted, “Sleep test or assessments are not required for all but only those who have chronic diabetes.

There is comprehensive management taken up for diabetes along with medication and lifestyle changes. But it is also important that the individual put on sleep hygiene maintenance.”