Why Athletes Develop Sleep Apnea: Exploring the Hidden Risks

When we think of athletes, we often picture individuals in peak physical condition—fit, strong, and resilient. It may come as a surprise that athletes are not immune to health challenges like sleep apnea. This sleep disorder, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, can affect athletes due to a combination of physical, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Despite their fitness levels, certain attributes tied to their sports and training regimens can increase their susceptibility to sleep apnea, impacting their health and performance.

Athletes in specific sports, particularly those requiring larger body sizes, may be at an elevated risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Football players, rugby players, and wrestlers often maintain higher body masses, including broad necks, to optimize their performance. While these physical traits enhance their athletic abilities, they can also narrow the airway, making it more prone to obstruction during sleep. Even athletes with low body fat percentages may face challenges if their neck circumference contributes to airway constriction.

Another contributing factor is physical trauma, which is prevalent in contact sports. Repeated impacts to the head, neck, or jaw can cause structural changes in the airway over time. Injuries to the nasal passages or throat may also result in airway blockages, increasing the likelihood of sleep apnea. Additionally, athletes who frequently train at high altitudes to boost their endurance may experience central sleep apnea, a condition where the brain temporarily stops signaling the
muscles that control breathing. This occurs because reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes can disrupt the body’s respiratory regulation.

Finally, the demanding schedules and overtraining common among athletes can also contribute to sleep apnea. Excessive physical exertion without adequate recovery may affect respiratory muscles and overall sleep quality, further exacerbating the risk. This, combined with the need for deep restorative sleep to repair muscles and optimize performance, makes sleep apnea a significant concern.

Understanding these risks is essential for athletes and their support teams. Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea, such as using a CPAP machine or adopting lifestyle modifications, can help athletes maintain their peak performance while safeguarding their health. By addressing these unique challenges, athletes can achieve the restful sleep they need to excel in their sport and in life.