Sleep Apnea and CFS

[PlateletGal]

Last night during the live chat with Dr. Steven Park in the thyroid forum, I asked him about abnormalities found in CFS patients. Dr, Park answered my question and said that "almost consistently, people with CFS have very narrowed airways behind the tongue, especially when on their backs."

Here's a link to the discussion if you are interested:

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/736476

I do know that many CFS patients have sleep dysfunction and that underlying sleep disorders (possibly due to infection?) can complicate and exacerbate our illnesses.

http://www.cfids.org/archives/2002rr/2002-rr4-article01.asp

[Ree4tu]

Just a comment...The information from Dr. Park is so interesting.  Right now I am going through some major upper airway troubles that seem to be exacerbated by my swollen glands and tonsils due to chronic infection.  I kept saying it feels like I can't breathe and like someone is choking me, but doctors didn't have answers. After reading this, I think my airway is inflammed too.  Plus I have the progesterone deficiency which Dr. Park says progesterone is an upper airway dilator. Oh, I also have the hypothyroid too - I am a complete mess, but good to know someone has answers.

Thank you,
Ree4tu

[VaBreeze]

I believe this holds true for those suffering from FMS as well.  Most have some form of sleeping disorder.  A lack of restorative sleep increases the pain, fatigue and cognitive symptoms.  

I'm glad he had an opportunity to answer questions for everyone.