Sleep apnea is a serious sleeping disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. People with untreated sleep apnea often repeatedly stop breathing during sleep. This is an indication that the brain and the rest of the body are not getting enough oxygen.
Sleep apnea has two types, namely:
- Obstructive sleep apnea. This type of sleep apnea is the most common. This occurs when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep and block the airway. This condition causes the person to snore loudly and frequently stop breathing during sleep.
- Central sleep apnea. This type of sleep apnea is way different than obstructive sleep apnea. This occurs when the brain fails to send a signal to the muscles that control breathing. People with central sleep apnea seldom snore.
Self-help treatments
Being diagnosed with sleep apnea can be frightening but is a treatable condition. Several ways can be taken that can help them reduce sleep apnea symptoms, particularly for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Home remedies and changes in lifestyles can help in reducing sleep apnea symptoms. However, they should not replace medical evaluation and treatment. Below are the following lifestyle changes to reduce sleep apnea symptoms:
- Stop smoking. Smoking contributes to sleep apnea by increasing inflammation and fluid retention in the throat and upper airway.
- Lose some weight. People who are overweight are at high risk for sleep apnea. This is because they have extra tissue in the back of their throat, which can fall down over the airway and block the flow of air into the lungs while they sleep.
- Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills, and sedatives. The intake of alcohol, sleeping pills, or sedatives must be avoided, especially before bedtime, as it relaxes the muscles in the throat and interferes with breathing.
- Avoid caffeine and heavy meals. Consumption of caffeine and heavy meals should be avoided two hours before sleeping.
- Have plenty of sleep. Maintaining regular sleep hours will help a person relax and sleep soundly. Sleep apnea episodes decrease when a person has plenty of rest.
- Exercise regularly. Exercising regularly can have a significant effect on the duration and quality of sleep. Activities such as aerobic and resistance training can help reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea, while yoga is ideal for strengthening the muscles in the airways and improve breathing.
If you’re suffering from a sleep disorder that causes breathing pauses, then it may be Sleep Apnea! Book your appointment immediately at Pawhuska Dental for Sleep Apnea/Snoring in Pawhuska, OK. You can visit us at 201 W Main St., Pawhuska, OK 74056.