Medical Management for Weight Loss

A weight-loss journey is about more than just losing extra pounds. It’s also about keeping the weight off and making wise food choices that support your overall well-being. At the Sleep, Snoring, and Sinus Clinic of Florida, we provide skilled and compassionate care to help patients safely and effectively reach their weight loss goals.

Being Overweight increases your risk for sleep apnea

According to statistics, close to 25 million people across the country suffer from sleep apnea. While the condition can be attributed to many things, evidence points to obesity as a major risk factor. The fact is that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is most common in people who are obese or overweight. Close to 60% to 90% of adults diagnosed with the condition are overweight.

Being overweight or obese contributes to the development of obstructive sleep apnea in the following ways:

• With a significant weight gain, fat deposits accumulate in the upper airway. As the narrower airway relaxes when sleeping, it can obstruct the normal flow of air.
• In addition to physically narrowing the upper airway, fat deposits can also diminish the level of muscle activity and control in the area.
• Excess abdominal fat can compress the chest wall and decrease lung volume and capacity. The reduced airflow may further contribute to an upper airway collapse when sleeping.

The relationship between obesity and obstructive sleep apnea is complicated and can lead to a vicious cycle. Just as excess weight can result in obstructive sleep apnea, the condition can, in turn, lead to lower activity levels and additional weight gain.

Weight Management is key

The good news is that losing weight can significantly reduce many sleep apnea symptoms and improve cardiovascular health, metabolism, overall well-being, and function.

However, as everyone knows, with both genetic and non-genetic factors often at play, it’s difficult to shed any unwanted pounds and get back into shape. We understand the challenges and frustrations involved in a weight loss journey. As experienced healthcare professionals, we offer comprehensive and supportive weight loss management plans personalized to address individual needs.

Our weight management plans include the following:

• A complete medical assessment
• Nutritional Counseling and diet planning
• Guidance on exercise and healthy physical activities
• Behavioral counseling to promote lifestyle changes

Our goal is for every patient to enjoy the benefits of a good night’s sleep and optimal health.

We also offer skilled and supportive guidance on lifestyle and behavioral modifications to help patients work towards a healthy body weight.