Snoring warning sign on metabolic syndrome

Loud snoring is a first indication of metabolic syndrome, according to a study

05/12/2010

Loud snoring, according to study results, may be a first indication of a metabolic syndrome. The „deadly quartet“ as the syndrome is also commonly referred to, is now considered a key risk factor for, for example, coronary heart disease. The metabolic syndrome is associated with a variety of metabolic disorders, disorders of blood pressure regulation and obesity.

Loud breath sounds during sleep first warnings
According to a study from the University of Pittsburgh, loud snoring indicates a metabolic syndrome. As a result, the breathing noise during sleep more than doubles the likelihood of this disorder. It is also characterized by falling asleep, which are also considered indicative. The syndrome is considered to be a significant risk for serious illnesses such as diabetes, heart attack and stroke. For a specification of the diagnosis just three health-endangering factors are sufficient: A large abdominal circumference, high blood pressure, high blood glucose levels, a low level of positive HDL cholesterol and high blood lipid levels (triglycerides).

During the study, scientists and physicians from the University of Pittsburgh examined 800 adult subjects. Here, the researchers first focused on whether the participants suffer from sleep disorders. About one in seven subjects developed sleep problems during the course of the study. Loud snoring increased the risk of metabolic syndrome by a factor of 2.3. Snoring disturbs the respiratory system, which also affects the metabolism of the body, as the scientists in the science magazine say „Sleep“ suspect. Those who had difficulty falling asleep showed an increased risk factor of 80 percent. Continuous waking at night, according to study results, had no direct impact on the metabolic syndrome.

Treatment options for metabolic syndrome
If a medical diagnosis has been made for a metabolic syndrome, then at the beginning of therapy there is a clear change in the patient's previous lifestyle. To lower blood lipid levels, body weight and waist circumference should be significantly reduced. The menu must include a low-fat and healthy diet. White flour should be replaced with whole grains. People should avoid meat and eat more fish and vegetables as much as possible. By changing the diet, the longest possible delay of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases can be achieved. The second therapeutic approach is a significant increase in physical activity. At least 30 minutes a day, and at least three times a week, those affected should actively move and, if possible, do sports under medical supervision. If those affected change their way of life, the loud snoring usually ceases. (Sb)

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