Sleep gives back to us what we wipe out during the day: energy! If sleep apnea is interfering in your ability to recoup every night, take action by educating yourself. Begin by reading the following tips that can have you back in control of the zzz’s in no time at all!
If you have sleep apnea, be sure to ask your doctor every five years if you should have a follow-up sleep study. As your weight and health change, your CPAP pressure may need to be adjusted. The most accurate way to reassess your needs is to have another sleep study with CPAP so the appropriate pressure can be determined.
Sleep Apnea patients using a CPAP machine may find that a humidifier is their best friend. The continuous passage of air from the machine can dry out sensitive nasal membranes, creating discomfort. A room humidifier, placed near the machine, often provides the humidification needed for comfortable sleep. If that isn’t sufficient, machines with integrated humidification chambers are available and allow the patient to customize the amount of moisture they receive.
If you are going to be hospitalized for any reason, bring your CPAP with you to ensure you get restful sleep. You need to take your CPAP machine with you whenever you go to the ER or any routine hospitalization, such as for surgery. The settings will be prepared and you won’t have to adjust the pressure. This will facilitate your CPAP therapy during your hospital stay.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, make sure you treat your allergy and sinus problems. Sleep apnea is a difficult enough condition to deal with. You have to avoid anything else that is going to affect your ability to breathe while you are asleep. By treating your allergies or sinus problems, you will be more likely to get a full night’s rest and have energy for the day.
If you have to use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, you may find it hard to get used to at first. It is important that you do not quit using the machine, though. Focus on the benefits of the machine rather than the inconvenience. It will make life safer for yourself and others. Daytime sleepiness caused by sleep apnea is a major risk factor for car accidents, for instance.
If you use a CPAP machine, make sure the mask fits well. Most people who quit using their CPAP machine usually say it is because the machine is uncomfortable. There are a number of different masks available, so you are not forced to use one that causes discomfort. Try out many different styles to find the right one.
Always discuss your sleep apnea problem with your doctor, but also try some self-help treatments. Anyone can enjoy better health from quitting smoking and dropping some unwanted pounds, but anyone afflicted with sleep apnea can really benefit from these lifestyle changes. Coffee, caffeine and alcohol should also be avoided before bed.
Although there are many things, you can do yourself regarding sleep apnea, don’t forget the help of the medical community. When dealing with a problem as serious as sleep apnea, you need to seek the help of a doctor as well as a sleep clinic in order to avoid any serious medical problems.
If you have sleep apnea, and you smoke, it’s crucial that you quit right away. Smoking causes the throat to inflame, making it hard for air to get into your airways. In fact, studies suggest that smoking may cause or worsen sleep apnea in some patients. So, avoid it altogether!
For those individuals that suffer from sleep apnea, sometimes the position that you sleep in can make a difference. Try sleeping on your side. Many times when people sleep on their backs, their tongues can block the airways making it harder to breath, and causing sleep apnea symptoms to appear.
If you have sleep apnea and have been using your current CPAP machine for five years or more, see if it is time to get it replaced. CPAP technology is rapidly changing all the time. Many insurance policies allow for a new CPAP machine every five years. If yours does, consider upgrading to the newest CPAP so you can get the best treatment possible.
Sleep apnea sufferers may need to look for a simple solution in order to get a better night’s rest. Give yourself a normal bedtime and follow your self imposed rules. Make sure your environment is suitable for your sleeping arrangement. Insomnia can occur if the conditions are poor.
Facing the morning with little to no sleep is brutal, much less the entire day ahead of you! Don’t let sleep apnea rob you of vital rest any longer; put the tips from this article to work for you tonight and start getting the high-quality sleep your body and life demand.
Breathe Easier With These Helpful Sleep Apnea Tips was originally published on Spring