Skip to content
My WebMD Sign In, Sign Up
Hidden cause of weight gain.
avatar
goodbyesleepapnea posted:
Did you know that sleep apnea causes (SA) weight gain? Well, you are not alone. Repeated obstructions of the upper airway during sleep cause an emergency reaction by the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in surges of stress hormones. Cortisol is one of these hormones. It is a major cause of weight gain, sometimes massive weight gain. Treating sleep apnea with a PAP machine will prevent airway obstructions and eliminate cortisol surges. Surprisingly, the drop in weight may occur without even trying.

Bottom line: Have a sleep test. If positive for SA, treat with PAP and watch the weight loss.
Was this Helpful?
21 of 39 found this helpful
0 Replies |Report This| Share this:Hidden cause of weight gain.Did you know that sleep apnea causes (SA) weight gain? Well, you are not alone. Repeated obstructions of the upper airway during sleep cause an emergency reaction by the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in surges of stress hormones. Cortisol is one of these hormones. It is a major cause of weight gain, sometimes massive weight gain. Treating sleep apnea with a PAP machine will prevent airway obstructions and eliminate cortisol surges. Surprisingly, the drop in weight may occur without even trying. <br /><br />Bottom line: Have a sleep test. If positive for SA, treat with PAP and watch the weight loss.
Reply


Back to Top
Back to Top

More from WebMD related to this Tip

Treating sleep apnea | sleep apnea causes | nervous system | weight loss | weight gain

See Related Eating & Diet Communities

See All Communities

Featuring Experts

Profile
Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, FACP Expert
Known as the "doc who walks the talk", Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, FACP, is an internationally renowned expert and speaker in women's health,...More

Popular Discussions

Start a Discussion | See All

Helpful Tips

Olive oil versus Canola oilExpert
Both oils contain healthy monounsaturated fats but canola actually has less saturated fat than olive oil. Canola is more versatile for ... More
Was this Helpful?
Yes No
169 of 213 found this helpful
Post a Tip | See All

Helpful Resources

Post a Resource | See All

Expert Blog

Everyday Fitness - Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, FACP

Achieve a better mind-body balance and live a healthier life with tips from wellness expert Dr. Pamela Peeke...Read More

Related News

Related Drug Reviews

  • Drug Name User Reviews
See More

Report Problems to the
Food and Drug Administration

FDAYou are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.