If can be scary to learn that you have sleep apnea. It is vital that you know that sleep apnea can be a common problem, and while serious, there are many effective treatments. Continue reading to learn great information that will help ease your mind.
A common reason that people have sleep apnea is due to the extra pounds on their bodies. If this is a problem for a person, then weight loss is recommended. Try changing your diet and ramp up your activity level. Many people have success following a low carb diet.
Look into corrective mouth pieces to help with your sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can be magnified in effects by small jaws and recessed chins, as well as breathing passageways that are naturally narrow. Specialty devices can rectify the minor deviations during sleep so that your jaw aligns and your breathing passage remains unobstructed, giving you a better night of uninterrupted rest.
If your doctor prescribes a mouth guard, make sure it is properly fitted. For those who have sleep apnea, this guard is a wonderful thing to have. This is a good alternative to using the CPAP machine. The device assists you by keeping your airways open while offering stability for soft tissue.
Sleep Apnea
Many children suffer with sleep apnea. 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. These symptoms can be similar to those of ADHD, so consult a doctor and consider both conditions.
Sleep apnea is not a condition to take likely. If you suspect you may have it, it is important to see your doctor right away. When you are officially diagnosed, you are going to be referred to a sleep specialist. You may even have to take a sleep test at home with a monitor to fully discover the depth of your symptoms.
Sleep on your side, as it can help lessen your sleep apnea symptoms. Your air passages are more likely to suffer obstruction when you sleep on your back. Try sleeping on your side at night and determine if that helps you breathe a bit easier.
Sleeping Pills
If you are having trouble getting to sleep, do not turn to sleeping pills for assistance when you have sleep apnea. Sleeping pills cause your throat muscles to relax, just like alcohol. They’re also known for causing other problems in those that have to deal with sleep apnea. If you have chronic insomnia, consult with your doctor about safe alternatives to sleeping pills.
To get a diagnosis for sleep apnea, your doctor may have you write a sleep log. In it, you’ll be expected to log the hours you sleep nightly, any symptoms you may feel and the overall quality of your sleep. Ask others in your home to let you know if you snored, woke up without realizing it due to your snoring or if you moved a lot in your sleep. This will allow your doctor to see if you’re suffering from sleep apnea.
As stated above, learning that you have sleep apnea can be pretty scary. However, it is a very treatable disorder. You can’t go wrong by taking the sleep apnea advice provided by this article and applying it in your own situation. If you get the correct treatment, your life will be healthy and more fulfilling even with your condition.
