Hypothyroidism and Sleep Apnea May Cause Similar Symptoms: Feeling of Weakness and Fatigue

Could You Have "Sleep Apnea" You Are Not Aware of?

Hypothyroidism and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome are two separate diseases that have completely different features and can cause similar symptoms.

Sleep Apnea


daytime sleepiness,Weakness,Fatigue,Hypothyroidism, Sleep Apnea
In obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, there is stenosis or mechanical collapse of the upper airways. In other words, due to factors such as insufficient oxygen intake during sleep, complete closure of the airway during deep sleep and secretion of stress hormones, poor quality sleep and waking up from sleep are a matter of concern. Most patients may state that they have difficulty waking up in the morning, sleep in the afternoon, especially when there is no sound and light stimulus and a serious need for sleep occurs while sitting down. As the severity of the airway stenosis increases, the symptoms that occur in the patients can be seen more. In patients with sleep apnea, the cause of weakness and fatigue is sometimes misunderstood, and it may be considered as low blood sugar or hypothyroidism, especially by patients. In other words, patients may think that instead of obstructive sleep apnea they have, there may be a metabolic cause in this way. In general, examination of the upper respiratory tract by an otolaryngologist and a sleep test (polysomnography) are required for diagnosis.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms



Hypothyroidism is a condition where thiorid hormone production is reduced. It can occur for various reasons. Thyroid hormone is the main responsible hormone in determining metabolism in our body. In these patients, not only fatigue is observed. Citte dryness, constipation, cold intolerance, brittle nails, drop in pulse rate, rapid weight gain, tongue growth (macroglossia), and decreased muscle diagnosis. In fact, hypothyroidism can facilitate the emergence of sleep apnea by causing both an increase in the risk of obesity, a growth in the tongue and a decrease in muscle tone in the long term. In the diagnosis, it may be necessary to check the hormone levels in the blood and to evaluate the thyroid.

Many patients with sleep apnea look at the alarm clock in the morning and say they need to sleep again over and over again. This situation is more pronounced, especially in patients with severe sleep apnea. Some patients may even fall asleep while talking during the day!

Both diseases and conditions can cause negative effects and problems for your health in the long term. If you have a constant feeling of weakness and fatigue, remember that apart from vitamin deficiency, low blood sugar, hypothyroidism, and various muscle diseases, sleep apnea can also cause it.



Murat Enoz, MD, Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon - ENT Doctor in Istanbul

Private Office:
Address: İncirli Cad. No:41, Kat:4 (Dilek Patisserie Building), Postal code: 34147, Bakırköy - İstanbul
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E-Mail: muratenoz@gmail.com 
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