Managing obstructive sleep apnea in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is crucial for preventing complications like hypertension or diabetes. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) brings along with it a host of other diseases, one of which is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). While PCOS can be managed with medications and lifestyle modifications, if it has paved the way to OSA, then you need to follow a different course of treatment simultaneously He added, “If someone with PCOS is diagnosed with OSA, they should be treated for OSA as well to avoid long-term complications.” This is necessary because PCOS is a major risk factor for sleep apnea. Assessing 17 studies with a total of 648 participants who had PCOS, a study conducted by the American Sleep Apnea Association, found that 35% of them had OSA, which is a significant portion. A sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep due to a partial or complete blockage of the upper airway. This leads to symptoms such as loud snoring, pauses in breathing, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, mood changes, cognitive issues, and increased risks of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Priorities Sleep While it can be compelling to sacrifice sleep for work, study, socializing, or exercise, it’s crucial to prioritize sleep Establishing Consistency And Sleep Hygiene Maintaining a consistent wake-up and bedtime routine helps the body adapt to a healthier sleep schedule Identifying Sleep Disorders Sleep apnea may manifest with various symptoms, particularly prevalent among women with PCOS. That is why “It’s imperative to undergo testing for sleep disorders if diagnosed with PCOS,” said Dr Dey. Untreated OSA with PCOS can pave the way for health risks such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.
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Friday, June 27, 2025