If you’re a healthy person who struggles to get quality sleep, you can blame stress for your situation, but medical science says that more muscles can often lead to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). apparently wider neck and bigger chest can create unstable oxygen levels at night, leading to brain fog and a serious risk of stroke or heart attack. Fortunately, the process of both diagnosing and treating OSA is more accessible than ever.
Dr. Hopp, medical director of OSA treatment resource Daybreak, says bodybuilders and weightlifters need to take a serious look at their sleep patterns, so M&F dreamed several suitable questions for a successful dream.
What are the side effects of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?
Obstructive sleep apnea affects approximately 30 million Americans, with up to 80% of these cases undiagnosed.makes clear that its negative effects are often overlooked or blamed on stress or other lifestyle factors. Despite how common it is, obstructive sleep apnea has both immediate symptoms and serious long-term health effects.
On a daily basis, people with undiagnosed or untreated sleep apnea often experience loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, headaches upon waking, and a host of other side effects. These symptoms can affect daily activities, from work performance and productivity to relationships and physical activity at the gym.
Over time, the health effects become more serious. OSA is closely related to cardiovascular strain due to repeated decreases in oxygen levels during sleep. This increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Chronic sleep disruptions can also disrupt your metabolism, increasing your risk of insulin resistance and weight gain, both of which can make sleep apnea more difficult to manage. Over time, repeated oxygen deprivation and poor sleep quality affect brain function, often leading to problems with memory, concentration, and overall mental clarity.
Why bodybuilders and powerlifters are at high risk for sleep apnea
Bodybuilders are especially at risk because heavy weights and strength training often lead to increased neck rotation due to hypertrophy in the neck, upper chest and shoulder muscles. A thick, muscular neck may look impressive, but it can also reduce airway space and increase the likelihood of upper airway obstruction during sleep, especially when sleeping on your back. There are several factors that put bodybuilders at higher risk of sleep apnea:
- Neck size from upper body training: Upper body strength training builds the muscles in the neck and chest. Although it is often intentional, greater neck rotation is strongly associated with both the development and severity of obstructive sleep apnea. Whether the increase is from muscle or fat, the extra size can put pressure on the airway and increase the likelihood of collapse during sleep, which often leads to obstructive events.
- Large number of chest muscles: A very muscular chest can sometimes interfere with normal breathing mechanics. An increased mass in the chest area can restrict lung expansion, which can contribute to frequent episodes of apnea.
- Increase in BMI from muscle mass: BMI is often associated with body fat, but a higher BMI than muscle mass can have a similar effect on breathing. Increased total mass, regardless of composition, can contribute to airway restriction and worsening of OSA.
- Use of anabolic steroids and performance enhancing substances: These substances can alter the structure and function of muscles, including those involved in breathing. This can disrupt normal breathing patterns during sleep and increase the risk of developing or worsening OSA.
How to diagnose: Home sleep tests and laboratory studies?
The first step is to recognize the symptoms and talk to your health care provider. Today, the diagnostic process is more accessible and easier than ever. No need to go to the lab and sleep, instead you can do it in the comfort of your own home.
Many patients can now take a home sleep test, such as Morning sleep test at homewhich uses a simple wireless device that comfortably wraps around your finger overnight. The sleep test is FDA cleared and has a 98% accuracy in detecting sleep apnea. Once completed, the data is reviewed by a physician to determine if sleep apnea is present and how severe it may be. The devices monitor various symptoms during your sleep, such as breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep quality over the course of a night or two.
What are the possible treatments for OSA?
Treatment varies based on severity and individual preferences. It is the most common treatment CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy The way it works is by delivering a steady flow of air, keeping the airway open during sleep through a mask that is worn while sleeping. However, many active individuals prefer alternatives such as a custom oral appliance similar to a night guard. These devices, such as Morning deviceare small, smart devices worn in the mouth that gently reposition the mouth to keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are often preferred as an alternative to CPAP because they’re easier to travel with, more comfortable for many people—especially in treating your OSA—and fit more seamlessly into a regular nighttime routine than traditional options.
The benefits of treatment, regardless of method, include significantly improved sleep quality, improved recovery, increased energy levels, and improved overall health and functioning.
