31.03.2025
Managing diabetes is a complex challenge, and an often-overlooked factor is the role of sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnoea. Research has established a strong connection between sleep apnoea and diabetes, showing that poor sleep quality can significantly impact blood sugar control and overall diabetes management. To gain expert insight into this crucial link, you can turn to Dr. Aditi Desai, a leading specialist in sleep medicine. Her expert advice sheds light on the relationship between diabetes and sleep apnoea, offering practical solutions for improving sleep and enhancing diabetes management.
The Connection Between Sleep Apnoea and Diabetes
Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions can lead to low oxygen levels, poor sleep quality, and increased stress on the body. Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnoea, and vice versa.
Diabetes and sleep apnoea share common risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and insulin resistance. When sleep apnoea remains undiagnosed or untreated, it exacerbates diabetes-related complications, making blood sugar levels harder to control. Frequent night-time awakenings, caused by obstructed airways, result in elevated stress hormone levels, which further contribute to insulin resistance and glucose intolerance.
How Sleep Apnoea Worsens Diabetes Management
One of the biggest challenges in diabetes management is maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Analyzing sleep apnoea and diabetes, sleep apnoea disrupts the body’s natural ability to regulate glucose levels, leading to poor glycemic control. Dr. Aditi Desai outlines several key ways in which untreated sleep apnoea worsens diabetes outcomes.
Increased Insulin Resistance
People suffering from diabetes and sleep apnoea may experience higher blood sugar fluctuations. Sleep deprivation caused by sleep apnoea alters the way the body responds to insulin, reducing its effectiveness. This means that even with proper medication and diet, individuals with untreated sleep apnoea may struggle to maintain optimal blood sugar levels.
Heightened Inflammation
Chronic sleep disruption triggers systemic inflammation, a major factor in diabetes-related complications. Inflammation contributes to cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, and kidney problems, which are already prevalent among diabetes patients.
Fluctuations in Blood Sugar Levels
Poor sleep quality leads to hormonal imbalances that cause spikes and drops in blood sugar levels. This makes diabetes management unpredictable and increases the risk of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.
Increased Appetite and Weight Gain
Sleep apnoea is associated with increased levels of ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and decreased levels of leptin (the satiety hormone). This hormonal imbalance results in cravings for unhealthy foods, leading to weight gain—a major risk factor for both diabetes and sleep apnoea.
Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Both sleep apnoea and diabetes contribute to an elevated risk of heart disease. Dr. Desai warns that untreated sleep apnoea can cause high blood pressure and arrhythmias, further complicating diabetes management.
Expert Advice from Dr. Aditi Desai on Managing Sleep Apnoea and Diabetes
Addressing sleep apnoea can greatly improve diabetes outcomes. Dr. Aditi Desai provides practical, evidence-based strategies for managing both sleep apnoea and diabetes effectively.
1. Seek Diagnosis and Treatment for Sleep Apnoea
Dr. Desai urges diabetes patients to undergo a sleep study if they experience symptoms such as excessive snoring, daytime fatigue, or morning headaches. Diagnosing sleep apnoea early allows for timely intervention, improving both sleep quality and diabetes control. A sleep study helps assess the severity of sleep apnoea and determines the most appropriate treatment.
2. Use Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) for Treatment
By improving sleep quality and oxygenation, MADs may offer the following benefits for individuals with diabetes:
- Improved insulin sensitivity and better blood glucose control.
- Reduced sleep apnoea-induced inflammation.
- Better appetite regulation and energy balance, helping to prevent weight gain.
- Lower risk of heart disease through better oxygenation and rest.
3. Adopt Healthy Sleep Habits
Proper sleep hygiene plays a critical role in diabetes and sleep apnoea management. Dr. Desai recommends:
- Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
- Keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
- Limiting screen time before bed to reduce blue light exposure.
- Avoiding alcohol and caffeine in the evening.
- Engaging in relaxing bedtime routines such as reading, meditation, or gentle stretching.
4. Weight Management Strategies
Since obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes and sleep apnoea, maintaining a healthy weight is essential. Losing even a small percentage of body weight can reduce the severity of sleep apnoea and improve insulin sensitivity. Regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats are key.
5. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels Closely
People with sleep apnoea should monitor their blood sugar levels more frequently, as poor sleep can cause fluctuations. Keeping a detailed log of glucose readings helps identify patterns related to sleep quality. Using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can provide real-time data and improve diabetes control.
6. Address Stress and Mental Health
Chronic stress contributes to poor sleep and insulin resistance. Mindfulness, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help manage stress and improve sleep quality. Activities like yoga or spending time in nature further enhance well-being.
The Advantages of Dr. Aditi Desai’s Advice
- Early Detection and Prevention: Encourages early screening for sleep apnoea to prevent complications.
- Improved Blood Sugar Control: Better sleep quality leads to stable glucose levels.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved sleep means more energy and productivity.
- Lower Cardiovascular Risks: Reduces the risk of heart disease associated with diabetes.
- Weight Management Support: Addresses sleep-driven hunger and supports healthy weight.
The relationship between sleep apnoea and diabetes is undeniable, and Dr. Aditi Desai’s expert advice provides valuable insights into managing both conditions effectively. Her holistic approach emphasizes early diagnosis, effective treatment, and lifestyle modifications that can significantly improve diabetes and sleep apnoea management. By prioritizing sleep health, individuals with diabetes can achieve better blood sugar control, reduced complications, and an overall healthier life.
