Sleep apnea is frustrating to identify and live with, with 39 million adults in the United States struggling to sleep due to breathing issues. The stereotype that sleep apnea only affects overweight and aging men couldn’t be further from the truth. The sleep issues caused by sleep apnea can affect men, women, and children.
While the condition may make a consistent night of peaceful slumber rare, there are several things you can do and try to improve your health and wellness. Exploring those treatment options is essential to boost your quality of life.
Luckily, you’ve identified the perfect guide to use when learning to live with and overcome sleep troubles. Continue reading to invest in your health and wellness today!
Purchase a CPAP Machine
If you know you have sleep apnea, the most effective treatment method involves using a CPAP machine to help you breathe at night. The machine called the continuous positive airway pressure machine, enables you to breathe consistently during slumber.
Expect your doctor to sign you up for a sleep study to identify the root cause of your sleep issues. If the study shows you’re struggling to sleep due to sleep apnea, the doctor will prescribe you a CPAP machine.
The machine will ensure you receive the air you need while sleeping. It forces air into the throat to prevent it from collapsing.
Compare your machine options to find the ideal fit. Some CPAPs send cold air into your throat, while others include a humidifier. Both options are designed to help you overcome sleep apnea symptoms and live an exciting life.
Use Physical Activity
Physical activity provides several benefits for your mental and physical wellness. It’s an excellent way to improve energy levels and happiness, and your body will feel better when you’re consistent with your workout program.
Changing your routine is challenging, but the health benefits of adding physical activity into your day will combat your sleep issues. Consider joining a local workout group to be held accountable and continue your health journey.
Your time at the gym or on the walking trail will boost your cardiovascular system. You’ll also promote healthier sleep habits and feel ready for bed. It’s vital to enjoy a peaceful slumber when you have sleep apnea.
Take Cold Showers
The thought of cold showers is daunting to many, but they provide several benefits for your health. Do your best to maintain your emotions and control your body when the first cold water blast hits your shower.
The cold water will make your heart race and your lungs struggle to contain air. It’s also an effective way to burn fat cells without significant physical activity. Your cold shower in the morning will help you burn more fat and stimulate your nervous system to help you breathe better when sleeping.
Try New Sleeping Positions
If your standard sleeping position is causing you to wake up exhausted, consider trying new sleeping positions. Look for options that are comfortable for your body to prevent soreness and stiffness when waking.
Most people who have sleep apnea have Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The sleep issues stem from difficulties breathing due to a blocked airway. It’s also beneficial to contact Highroad Enterprises to learn more about the effects of Lyme Disease on sleep apnea.
The blockage can be caused by inflammation, but most patients experience it due to a poor sleeping position. Sleeping on your side is the best way to enjoy a peaceful slumber with sleep apnea. You can also counter the effects of heartburn by sleeping on your side instead of your back or stomach.
The worst position to try is sleeping face up. Most people with sleep apnea prefer to sleep in this position. Avoid it to allow ample airflow into your body while resting.
Stop Drinking
Drinking alcohol has several adverse side effects that could make living a whole and active life challenging. The standard type of sleep apnea results from the muscles in the throat area becoming too relaxed after an evening of drinking alcohol.
You’ll lose much control over your breathing pattern when attempting to sleep after drinking with friends. If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, put the bottle down and look for new habits that will not have drastic consequences for your health and happiness.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is another activity to drop when you receive the diagnosis that you have sleep apnea. The smoke you breathe in will result in more work for your throat, chest, and lungs. You’ll struggle to get the oxygen you need when asleep if you smoke cigarettes.
Manage Other Health Conditions
Other health conditions will contribute to or worsen the effects of sleep apnea. Getting those conditions under control is essential to stop your sleep troubles. Two conditions that increase the risk of sleep apnea are high blood pressure and diabetes.
If you’ve been diagnosed with other notable health conditions, research how they affect sleep apnea. You can enjoy a peaceful slumber again by finding tips to manage symptoms and care for your mind and body.
Elevate Your Head
Sleeping positions are prominent in your battle to overcome sleep issues related to sleep apnea. One of the best tips involves elevating your head to a slight angle when preparing to sleep.
Raising your head improves sleep efficiency and is helpful to overcome sleep problems that leave you feeling drained. The ideal angle for your head is 7.5 degrees. The change will help you gain more oxygen while eliminating snoring for a restful night of recovery.
Overcome Your Sleep Apnea Today
Living with sleep apnea doesn’t have to change the trajectory of your life if you know how to combat the symptoms. Invest in a quality CPAP machine to get the oxygen you need at night.
Try different sleeping positions, and incorporate more physical activity into your daily life. Most of all, avoid drinking and smoking and work to manage the symptoms of other medical conditions.
Your health is significant in determining what you’ll accomplish in life. Read our Lifestyle content for health tips and fitness advice for a healthy life!
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