Do You Have Sleep Apnea? Try These Tips!

Do You Have Sleep Apnea? Try These Tips!

Many people are under the false assumption that if they feel tired after waking up each day, there's nothing they can to correct it. Facts are that this is a disorder which affects many people who do not realize they are even going though it. The article below will tell you what you should know about the condition. Do you drink and smoke? Stop these bad habits. Both of these things affect your airway negatively and compound your sleep apnea problem. Alcohol can relax airways while smoking can cause them to swell, both of which can cause you to have sleep apnea. Eliminate drinking or smoking before bedtime if you can't avoid them entirely.

Sleep Apnea

Have your dentist fit you for a custom mouth guard. These are made for people with sleep apnea. Instead of using a CPAP device, you can use a mouth guard. The soft tissues are given the support that they need to keep the airways open. Try cutting out cigarettes and alcohol if you have sleep apnea. Both of these cause muscles in your airway to relax, which can increase snoring and worsen sleep apnea. Avoiding these temptations can put more money back in your pocket, and is a lot more cost effective than expensive surgeries that may no longer be necessary. Many people don't realize that sleep apnea is not something to ignore and can be potentially dangerous if left untreated. It's important to seek medical advice as soon as you suspect you may be suffering from it. An official diagnosis might mean consultation with a sleep specialist, a sleep test and monitoring to get a whole grasp on your situation. Believe it or not, wind instruments can help you deal with your sleep apnea. Researchers in Germany have found playing a didgeridoo can make your throat muscles stronger. These muscles are responsible for opening and closing your airway, as well as controlling the stiffness of the airway. This is why playing this instrument regularly will help strengthen these muscles, and reduce snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. Lie on your side when you sleep. Many people with sleep apnea sleep while on their backs. Sleeping on your back can cause the tissues in your mouth and throat to block your airway. Sleeping sideways facilitates breathing. Prop pillows on one side to prevent you from rolling on your back while sleeping. Moderate your alcohol intake. The natural effects of alcohol lead to over-relaxation of your muscles. Drinking alcohol will make it hard for you to get through the night if you have sleep apnea. Your throat muscles may be affected, causing breathing difficulties. Try your best to limit your drinking if you do decide to have alcohol, and try to not have any right before bed. A doctor looks at both your medical history and family history when diagnosing sleep apnea. You might also undergo a sleep study. Dependent upon what your personal physician discovers, they might give you a referral to see a sleep specialist. Try nasal spray if you notice your nose is irritating you. This will dry out the passages and help clear them out temporarily. However, they are not suitable for long term use. Many pharmacies have different over-the-counter options available to help keep your nasal passages open. If you have sleep apnea and your mouth keeps falling open while you sleep with your CPAP every night, try wearing a chin strap. This minor fabric piece and make sure that your chin stays up and your mouth closed. Your mouth needs to remain closed for CPAP therapy to be effective. If you, or someone you know, has been plagued with being tired for months or years, it is time to mention it to a health care provider. People really shouldn't have to suffer without getting a proper diagnosis. Share this advice with others who may be suffering from this debilitating condition. If you are not getting relief from your sleep apnea treatment methods, consult your physician for more serious options. Not everyone responds to the standard treatment for sleep apnea, and some may need to do something a little more drastic, including surgical techniques.