Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder that affects millions of adults, often without them realizing it. Repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep can lead to fatigue, high blood pressure, heart disease, and even cognitive decline. Many people dismiss snoring or daytime sleepiness as minor inconveniences, but untreated OSA can have major health consequences.

At SleepScriptMD, a physician-led practice with decades of experience in treating insomnia, we recognize the impact of sleep disorders on overall health. Understanding the most common causes of OSA is the first step toward improving sleep quality and reducing long-term risks.

This guide is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice. Any treatment—whether a supplement, medication, procedure, injection, therapy, or device—carries potential risks, especially when used in excess or by individuals with certain medical conditions or genetic predispositions. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

What Causes Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

OSA occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing repeated lapses in breathing. Several factors contribute to this condition, including:

• Excess Weight – Fat deposits around the upper airway can obstruct breathing, increasing the risk of OSA significantly. Studies show that even a 10% increase in weight can lead to a sixfold increase in OSA severity.
• Anatomical Features – A naturally narrow airway, large tonsils, or a thick neck circumference can contribute to airway obstruction.
• Age and Gender – OSA is more common in older adults and is nearly twice as prevalent in men compared to women, though postmenopausal women have an increased risk.
• Lifestyle Factors – Alcohol consumption and smoking can relax throat muscles, making airway collapse more likely.
• Medical Conditions – Hypertension, diabetes, and chronic nasal congestion are all associated with a higher likelihood of developing OSA.

How to Lower Your Risk of OSA

While some risk factors—such as age and anatomy—cannot be changed, there are several lifestyle modifications that can reduce the likelihood and severity of OSA:

• Lose Excess Weight – Research indicates that weight loss can reduce OSA severity by up to 50%, with even a 5-10% reduction in body weight significantly improving symptoms.
• Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet – A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fiber, and lean protein supports respiratory health and can help prevent OSA-related complications.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking – Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake have been shown to improve airway stability and reduce the frequency of breathing disruptions.
• Treat Underlying Medical Conditions – Properly managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can lead to measurable improvements in sleep quality.
• Optimize Sleep Position – Sleeping on your side instead of your back has been found to reduce OSA severity by as much as 50% in some patients.
• Consider Dietary Adjustments – Emerging research suggests that regular consumption of certain dairy products, such as cheese, may be associated with a lower risk of developing OSA.

Getting the Right Sleep Treatment Through SleepScriptMD

If you’re struggling with OSA symptoms such as snoring, excessive daytime fatigue, or waking up gasping for air, getting the right treatment can make all the difference. At SleepScriptMD, we offer a convenient, physician-led approach to diagnosing and managing sleep disorders.

• Step 1: Complete a Quick Virtual Intake – Answer a few questions online about your sleep patterns and health history.
• Step 2: Receive a Personalized Evaluation – Our experienced physicians will assess your case and recommend appropriate treatments.
• Step 3: Get a Tailored Treatment Plan – Whether it’s medication, lifestyle adjustments, or other interventions, we ensure a safe, physician-guided solution designed for your unique needs.

Take control of your sleep health today. Visit SleepScriptMD to start your virtual consultation and discover a treatment plan that works for you.

Sources

1. Mayo Clinic – Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Symptoms & Causes
   https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obstructive-sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352090
2. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute – Sleep Apnea: Causes
   https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-apnea/causes

New York Post – Eating Cheese May Be the Unlikely Key to Preventing Sleep Apnea
https://nypost.com/2025/01/07/health/eating-cheese-may-be-unlikely-key-to-preventing-sleep-apne