Women: Osteoporosis risk is greater with sleep apnea

The Endocrine Society’s journal carried an article on a study that showed that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may increase osteoporosis risk in women. OSA causes interruptions and blockages in the breathing of individuals during sleep. Sometimes these blockages last for over a minute and occur 30 or more times each hour during sleep. Untreated OSA can increase stroke, heart attacks, and cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Kai-Jen Tien, MD, one of the authors said that these interruptions harm the bodies systems and one of those systems can be the skeletal system. He said that these interruptions in breathing deprive the body of oxygen which weakens the bones leading to fractures. And of course that leads to an increase in the patient’s medical costs as well as quality of life. Many patients cannot get around easily and even need wheelchairs to navigate.

The study tracked 1,377 people who were diagnosed with OSA and compared them to 20,655 people who did not have OSA. As a result of the study, Dr. Tien said that more attention needs to be paid to OSA and bone health so we can help women prevent osteoporosis or at least reduce the level of osteoporosis.

Of course, this indicates that women who have osteoporosis or even osteopenia should have themselves checked for the possibility of having OSA. The test is simple and can be done overnight in your own home. Make an appointment for a free consultation at our office to determine if your osteoporosis may be being caused by OSA.

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Dr. Donald Johnson founded Northwest Treatment Center for Snoring & Sleep Apnea in Coeur d’Alene to help patients stop their snoring and live free with no limits! Obstructive sleep apnea is usually able to be treated with a small oral appliance. Dr. Johnson’s office is at 114 W. Neider Ave., near Costco. The website for more information is www.NWSleepDoc.com and the office phone is (208) 667-4551. Schedule a free consultation appointment today!