It can be daunting trying to figure out what you need to do once you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. There are so many new things to learn, and you may feel a bit overwhelmed. Reading this article can provide you with some simple steps to take to make the transition much easier.
If you are unsure whether or not you have sleep apnea, consider setting up an audio or video recorder next to your bed. When you review the recording, watch or listen for choking, gasping or other signs that you are not getting enough air as you sleep. Present your findings to your doctor if you suspect that you do have apnea.
Alleviate you sleep apnea by loosing weight. Many studies have demonstrated that sleep apnea can be significantly improved or even eliminated when patients slim down. You can go to the gym, join exercise classes or just get out and walk. Taking off the extra pounds will help you sleep more soundly.
Understand the effects that smoking and drinking alcohol have on sleep apnea, if you are trying to get a grip on your quality of sleep. Smoking enlarges airways, while alcohol can relax them too much, both of which will contribute to the symptoms of sleep apnea severely. Consider making the necessary cut-backs that will cut down on your sleep problems.
Sleep apnea sufferers should always invest in a heated humidifier equipped with a bacterial filtering mechanism for use in the room where they sleep. By utilizing this type of machine, it is possible to guard against the fragile membranes that line the lungs and nasal passages, preventing exacerbation of existing symptoms.
Get to bed at a regular time every night if you suffer from sleep apnea. Your sleeping pattern is already thrown off by this sleep disorder. Whatever you can try to help minimize the effects of this condition and help to normalize your sleep patterns can only help you get better. Go to sleep and wake up each day on a regular schedule and this schedule should be used on the weekends, too.
It’s imperative that you see a doctor for a proper diagnosis when it comes to sleep apnea. But some people find that they can be responsible for their own treatment. Avoiding smoking and losing weight are good for anyone, but especially those with sleep apnea. Stay away from large meals, caffeine, and alcohol if you have sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea events can be decreased by keeping regular sleep hours. Going to bed and getting up at approximately the same time every day will provide better and more relaxed sleep. This simple lifestyle change can be a big help when sleep apnea is in the mild to moderate range.
Sleeping face-up is something to avoid if you’re having sleep apnea issues. Most people who have sleep apnea are back sleepers, which means that their airways constrict easier. Use whatever means you can to keep from rolling on your back. Pillows can help and some people even sew a tennis ball into the back of their night clothes.
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.
Life after your CPAP diagnosis may seem overwhelming at first. However, there is a lot of help to be found if you look for it. This article has shared just a few easy ideas for dealing with your sleep condition. Start applying these today, and you will feel more in control of your life in no time.
