Despite regularly practicing yoga, using waist wraps, and getting massages, Ms. Lien experienced an increase in both her weight and waist circumference. Doctor Lam Van Hoang, Head of the Endocrinology - Diabetes Department at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, diagnosed Ms. Lien with grade two obesity, visceral fat levels twice the safe threshold, and fatty liver. He noted that stress combined with sleep disorders often leads to rapid weight gain and sleep apnea in patients.

Doctor Hoang explained that stress elevates cortisol hormone levels, which triggers excessive glucose release into the bloodstream. This leads to an accumulation of excess fat, contributing to weight gain and obesity. Additionally, elevated cortisol levels stimulate appetite. This often prompts individuals to cope with stress by eating more than usual, further exacerbating weight gain.

Doctor Hoang consults Ms. Lien on treatment. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

According to Doctor Hoang, sleep disorders were a key factor in Ms. Lien's weight gain, and her overweight condition, in turn, led to sleep apnea, further deteriorating her sleep quality.

Ms. Lien underwent multimodal obesity treatment, which included a combination of oral and injectable medications, alongside significant lifestyle modifications aimed at improving her sleep. Patients are advised to limit their consumption of coffee, stimulants, alcohol, and high-sugar foods in the late afternoon or evening. Instead, they should prioritize foods rich in tryptophan, melatonin, magnesium, and omega 3, which can enhance sleep quality. These include: salmon, kiwi, almonds, and walnuts.

She was advised to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, soak her feet in warm water for about 30 minutes before bed, and massage her body, focusing on the head, neck, and shoulders to promote better sleep. Additionally, exercising for 30 minutes daily before bedtime and gradually reducing sedative use helps prevent medication dependence.

After two months of treatment, Ms. Lien lost 10 kg. She now sleeps for 6-7 hours nightly and experiences almost no daytime fatigue. Her overall goal is to lose a total of 20 kg.

Doctor Hoang emphasized that sleep disorders are common and severely impact cognitive function, hyperactivity, attention deficit, and immune suppression. They also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Individuals experiencing frequent stress and insomnia should seek medical examination for timely diagnosis of the cause and appropriate treatment.

Duc Hanh

*Patient's name has been changed