Many give up hope and assume that sleep apnea is something that simply must be lived with. This simply isn’t true. Sleep apnea might be the cause of sleeping problems and everyone should be aware of it.
One way to fight against sleep apnea is to give up vices. In particular, alcohol and cigarettes are bad for you. Consuming alcohol can lead to trouble with your respiratory system. Smoking damages the lungs. These are both habits which can make sleep apnea worse.
If you want to ease your sleep apnea, it’s crucial that you speak with your physician regarding CPAP machines and which is best for you. You need to be aware of the machine’s size, as well as how loud it is. Some machines can be quite small and be very quiet. A doctor will be able to give advice on machines that they know their patients have had very good luck with.
Quit smoking and drinking. Both of these bad habits can cause the airway muscles to relax, which makes you snore and adds to the symptoms of sleep apnea. Giving up these habits can save you a lot of money as compared to expensive surgical procedures that might be needed later if you continue.
Try not to drink alcohol as much. Consuming alcohol causes your muscles to relax too much. People who are addicted to alcohol may learn that this is the cause of their apnea, and others who drink sporadically should know it affects them, too. Because alcohol relaxes your throat muscles, your airway is harder to control. Try your best to limit your drinking if you do decide to have alcohol, and try to not have any right before bed.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep on your side, as it can help lessen your sleep apnea symptoms. The airway obstructions that cause sleep apnea are far more likely to occur if you sleep on your back than in any other position. If you can get to sleep lying on your side (and stay that way through the night), you may well experience a much less trouble night.
Look for other sleeping aids besides sleeping pills. Relaxed throat muscles (caused by alcohol consumption as well as sleep medication) can contribute to an increase in sleep apnea. They also lead to other issues that can cause many problems, especially for someone suffering with sleep apnea. See if your doctor knows of any sleeping medication that doesn’t cause respiratory depression.
To help alleviate this condition, you should sleep on your side. If you sleep on your back, this can make your sleep apnea worse. When you sleep on your back it can cause your throat and mouth tissues to impede your airways. You will breathe easier if you sleep on your side. If you roll on your back when you sleep, try using pillows to stay on your side.
Bring your medical ID every you travel with your CPAP device. You need to have a way of letting medical personnel know about your condition if you are unconscious. The ID needs to include all of the medical information pertaining to your CPAP use.
Sleep Apnea
If you suffer from sleep apnea and intend to travel at all, make sure you bring you CPAP in the luggage. The effectiveness of the CPAP depends on nightly use, and if you have sleep apnea, it is essential to not miss even one night. Conveniently, your CPAP machine should have a bag included with it for easy travel. You can transport your CPAP machine with you away from home.
You’ll be able to manage your condition once you’ve learned this information. Don’t let anyone tell you that being consistently tired is normal or that you are wrong for talking to your doctor about what you have learned here.
