Sleep apnea is a disorder that can rob you of many peaceful nights. Not getting enough rest each night is not only annoying, it’s unhealthy too. If you suffer from sleep apnea, you need to get it under control. The following article is a compilation of tips that can help you do just that.
Get a mouth guard to help you sleep at night. A sleep mouth guard will correct the airway and let you breathe correctly all night. Consult with a doctor or get a mouth guard made if you are suffering.
Check if a corrective device can help alleviate your sleep apnea symptoms. Having an overbite, an undersized jaw or a recessed chin can cause your airway to be more narrow because of how your jawbone is set. These devices help create proper alignment of your jaw while you sleep, opening up your airway more. As a result, you experience fewer sleep apnea symptoms.
Clear up your nasal passage before heading to bed. If you suffer from sleep apnea and have problems with a “stuffed up” nose, using a nasal spray or device can help clear your nasal airway. This is not a permanent solution, but one you can use when your apnea symptoms are the worst.
Try to sleep on your side instead of your back to breathe easier when you sleep. The chances of your airways being restricted are more likely when you sleep on your back. Try to fall asleep on your side instead and use a pillow if needed. It may relieve some symptoms.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, make sure your significant other or your family is aware of your condition. In emergency situations, it is vital that whoever is with you can tell the physician treating you about your condition during any emergency medical care. You should make them aware of both the apnea diagnosis and your treatment.
Avoid drinking alcohol. Getting buzzed or drunk causes your airways to relax too much. If someone goes to sleep in a drunk state, you can hear the effects from their deep snoring. In someone who already suffers from sleep apnea, it can be very dangerous. Avoid alcoholic drinks to sleep safer.
Try to keep a sleep schedule if sleep apnea is an issue in your life. Your sleep condition already disrupts your sleep cycle nightly. Do whatever you can to restore your natural sleeping patterns, and you will find that you can handle the apnea a bit easier. You should go to bed at the same hour every single day.
Do you always sleep on your back? Try sleeping on your side instead. When you sleep on your back with a head propped on a pillow, your airways get narrower. Go to sleep on your side and use cushions to prevent yourself from rolling in your sleep. Your airways should remain open as long as you are on your side.
Take what steps you can to reduce the risk factors of sleep apnea you’re subject to. Certain risk factors that are associated with the condition cannot be controlled, such as being a man or having a family history of it. Be this as it may, smokers, drinkers and those who are overweight can reduce their risks.
If you have a CPAP machine, you should always have it with you. Using a different machine might not work as well since the settings or the mask might be different. If you have to go to the hospital, have someone bring your machine so you can keep on using it.
Strengthening the muscles of your throat can be an effective way to reduce the risk of sleep apnea. The reduced airflow characteristic of sleep apnea is due to soft tissue in the throat relaxing. When your muscles strengthen, their chances of collapse and airway blockage go down.
If you have sleep apnea and use a CPAP when you sleep at night, do not neglect your filters. It can be easy to forget about this, but you need to make sure your machine operates at maximum efficiency. Wash your reusable filter at least every week, and replace your white pollen filter at least once a month.
Taking the time to exercise your jaw and stick out your tongue may seem like children’s play. In a recent scientific study, people who performed jaw and tongue exercises daily were able to relieve some of their sleep apnea symptoms. It may not work for everyone, but could be worth a try for a good night’s rest.
If you have sleep apnea, do not use sleeping pills. These medications work to relax the throat muscles, which is not what you need to cure sleep apnea. They can also cause a lot of other problems, so it is best to stay away from them. If you have a hard time falling asleep at night, try learning some natural ways to rest your body.
Nasal strips may help lessen your symptoms of sleep apnea. These types of strips i.e. Breathe Right may be able to open your nasal passages. Remember that clogged nasal passages may not be your reason for sleep apnea problems, but these over-the-counter nasal strips may help you relieve or lessen symptoms.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, try chewing on both sides of your mouth! It may sound odd, but if you think about it, chewing works all of your jaw muscles, so balanced strength and functionality may lessen the airway problems associated with sleep apnea. You might also try specific exercises that work all muscles in the jaw and throat.
Your head and your throat should be aligned when you sleep. You can align your airways by sleeping on your side and propping your head with a small pillow. You should try different positions and wait a few minutes in each position to see which one allows you to breathe comfortably.
As you can now see, there are ways that you can get your sleep apnea under control. Apply what you’ve just learned, and start getting the rest you need. You will not only be healthier, you’ll be happier too. Once you start getting adequate rest, you will be in control of your life.