Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete airway obstruction during sleep. These episodes lead to disrupted sleep patterns, reduced oxygen levels in the blood, and repeated awakenings throughout the night, often without the patient being consciously aware. Obesity is the single most significant risk factor for OSA, as excess fat deposits around the neck, tongue, and upper airway narrow the breathing passage and increase airway collapse during sleep.

Patients with OSA commonly experience loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, poor concentration, and chronic fatigue. Over time, untreated sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and sudden cardiac events. It also affects mental health, work performance, and overall quality of life. In the UAE, OSA is increasingly diagnosed among overweight and obese individuals due to sedentary lifestyles and rising obesity rates.

Bariatric surgery plays a crucial role in the treatment of obesity-related obstructive sleep apnea. Weight loss achieved through surgery reduces fat accumulation around the upper airway, decreases airway resistance, and improves respiratory mechanics. As body weight decreases, the frequency and severity of apnea episodes significantly reduce, often leading to marked improvement or complete resolution of OSA.

Clinical studies demonstrate that a large proportion of patients experience substantial improvement in sleep apnea symptoms within months of bariatric surgery. Many patients are able to reduce or discontinue continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy under medical supervision. Improved sleep quality leads to better daytime alertness, enhanced cognitive function, and reduced cardiovascular risk.

Management of OSA within a bariatric program involves coordinated care between bariatric surgeons, pulmonologists, sleep specialists, and anesthesiologists. Patients undergo sleep assessments before surgery and are closely monitored post-operatively to ensure respiratory safety and long-term improvement.
By addressing the root cause of airway obstruction—excess body weight—bariatric surgery offers a disease-modifying solution for obstructive sleep apnea, improving both sleep health and overall metabolic well-being.