Q How much does obesity affect sleep apnea?
A Studies show that losing just 10% of body weight can reduce AHI by more than 30%. When fat around the neck and pharynx decreases, the airway widens and apnea improves significantly.
Detailed Answer
The Relationship Between Obesity and Sleep Apnea
Obesity is the single strongest risk factor for sleep apnea. The thicker the neck circumference, the narrower the airway lumen, and the more abdominal fat increases, the more easily the airway is compressed when lying down.
- 10% weight loss leads to a 26-50% reduction in AHI (clinical studies)
- A 1 cm reduction in neck circumference reduces apnea risk by about 14%
Combining Korean Medicine Weight Management with Sleep Apnea Treatment
At Dongjedang, formulas that improve a phlegm-dampness constitution often achieve two goals at once: weight loss and improvement of sleep apnea. By strengthening the Spleen-Stomach and removing phlegm-dampness, metabolism becomes more active and weight is naturally regulated.
If you are near Dongincheon in Incheon and experience snoring or sleep apnea along with obesity, we recommend consulting about Dongjedang's phlegm-dampness improvement program as well.
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