What is the relationship between menopause and sleep apnea?

• A. Increased risk due to hormonal changes and weight gain.
• B. Menopause reduces risk of sleep apnea.
• C. Sleep apnea is unrelated to menopause.
• D. Sleep apnea risk is limited to men.

Answer: (A)

Menopause increases the risk of sleep apnea because hormonal changes and weight gain during this period interact to affect airway stability and breathing.

The drop in estrogen and progesterone reduces protective effects on the upper airway and the drive to breathe, making the airway more prone to collapse during sleep. At the same time, weight gain common after menopause, especially central fat, narrows the airway and enhances obstruction. Put together, these factors raise the likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea in postmenopausal women.

This relationship is not about a reduced risk, and sleep apnea is not unrelated to menopause, nor is the risk limited to men. Postmenopausal women often experience a rise in sleep apnea prevalence, aligning more with that seen in men as age increases.