Snoring is a mild irritant for most people, but it can be much more severe for those suffering from sleep apnea. According to Dr. Jerry F. Maymi & Associates, sleep apnea can lead to a laundry list of issues like depression, fatigue and more. Luckily, these four methods of combating sleep apnea can save you from these symptoms.
1. Lose Weight
Overweight people are far more likely than others to suffer from sleep apnea. This is because the more you weigh, the more extra tissue can obstruct your airway in the back of your throat. By losing just a small amount of weight, your sleep apnea symptoms will most likely significantly drop.
2. Stop Smoking
Along with dozens of other health issues, smoking can cause or worsen your sleep apnea. The chemicals in cigarettes irritate the throat and cause inflammation, which obstructs your nighttime breathing. It can also cause fluid to become stuck in your throat, which can cause the difficulty in breathing that is a signature of sleep apnea.
3. Sleep on Your Side
For many people, they only experience extreme snoring when they sleep on their stomachs or backs. This is because gravity makes it far easier for your tongue to block your airway when you are not on your side.
A good trick for people that roll around in their sleep is to sew a tennis ball into the back of your nighttime shirt. This will stop you from rolling onto your back and allow you to keep your airway clear.
4. Keep Regular Hours
Many people find that their sleep apnea only springs up when they are sleeping at odd hours. If you are experiencing a similar situation, then try to keep consistent sleeping hours. Set a regular bedtime for yourself and wake up around the same time every day, as this will allow your body to get into a rhythm.
Why does this help? Your body works best when on a regular sleep schedule and this applies to sleep apnea as well. Your throat will be more relaxed if your body is used to going to sleep at the same time each night.
Sleep apnea is a serious issue that many people face, so do not take it lightly. If you are suffering from sleep apnea, these four tips are excellent ways to restore your sleep and stop the symptoms.
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being in the outdoors and exploring new opportunities whenever they arise. Meghan finds happiness in researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure.