Link Between Sleep Apnea And Diabetes

KYW Medical Report Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Sleep apnea is a very common health problem where people have sleep interrupted with periods of snoring and erratic breathing. We have known for quite some time that sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure and studies have shown links between this health issue and a wide variety of conditions.

What many are not aware of is the association between sleep apnea and diabetes. Much of the initial work in this area was conducted in Dublin, Ireland and we now recommend people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome be screened for sleep apnea and treated when possible.

One of the important points is that if you are someone who has sleep apnea or expects that you might it is worth getting a complete physical and evaluated for diabetes.