Everyone has to sleep, but when one has sleep apnea, the quality of sleep may not be very good. The next few paragraphs will give you useful pointers that will help you put your sleep apnea to bed and help you become a fully functioning human being again.
To keep your sleep apnea in check, eat a healthy diet to lose weight. A lot of people are surprised that a bad diet can affect sleep apnea. Research indicates that less nutritious food may exacerbate sleep apnea.
Do not consume as much alcohol as you used to. Alcohol has a relaxing effect on all your muscles. Drinking alcohol will make it hard for you to get through the night if you have sleep apnea. Alcohol can relax the muscles in your throat, making it more difficult for your body to control your airway. If you feel you must drink, try not to do it as often or before you go to sleep.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea also affects children. If your child is inattentive, hyperactive, has poor grades, is irritable or hostile, and/or breathes through their mouth instead of their nose, they could be suffering from sleep apnea. Oftentimes these symptoms cab be associated with ADHD, but first you should consult with your doctor to see if the problem is sleep apnea.
Sleeping pills and other drugs are not good solutions if you are having trouble falling asleep. In the same way that alcohol does, sleeping pills over-relax throat muscles. Taking sleeping pills can have a negative impact on other health conditions that those with sleep apnea may experience. If you have chronic insomnia, consult with your doctor about safe alternatives to sleeping pills.
If you sleep alone, it may be hard for you to get a good idea of the exact nature of your sleep apnea symptoms. Try taping yourself at night to see if you do. Ensure that you record audio also, which will allow the doctors to evaluate noises you are making during sleep.
Mouth Closed
If you are using a CPAP and experience an issue with your mouth opening during sleep, a chin strap can help. This is a small piece of fabric that holds your chin up while you sleep and keeps you mouth closed. Try this out to keep your mouth closed.
While a condition like this does require the professional opinion of a doctor, there are many self-help remedies that work, too. Giving up tobacco use and losing excess weight are good health choices in general, and they’re particularly effective in reducing the symptoms of sleep apnea. You should also refrain from consuming alcohol, heavy meals, and caffeine for a few hours before bed.
If you have sleep apnea, do not sleep laying on your back. Most people with sleep apnea habitually sleep through the night on their backs. This causes the throat muscles to collapse, blocking the airway. Lie on your side and support yourself with pillows to avoid rolling onto your back.
Not getting enough sleep has serious consequences in many aspects of life, and could even kill you if you aren’t careful. Get control over your condition now. Life is hard enough when you get plenty of sleep, but don’t make it harder by not getting enough!