Living with sleep apnea can be challenging. Oftentimes lifestyle changes must be made and mouthpieces or breathing apparatus must be worn every night, to prevent disruption of normal breathing. Although sleep apnea is a serious disorder, with proper treatment, regular breathing can be restored, loud snoring reduced and continued fatigue eliminated. Treatment is also essential for the prevention of apnea related conditions such as strokes, diabetes and high blood pressure. Those with mild cases may find that by simply making some changes in lifestyle, symptoms will improve, allowing for a better night's rest.
One simple solution to prevent breathing from being interrupted is to sleep on the sides instead of the back. Although most people sleep on their sides normally, those with this disorder should make sure they refrain from sleeping on their backs. There are special pillows that prevent rolling onto the back during rest. Although these pillows may take a little time to get use to, they are much easier to sleep with than a mouthpiece or breathing device.
Individuals with this disorder should also avoid taking medications that cause sleepiness, as well as alcoholic beverages. The effects of these substances can make it more difficult to keep the throat open while sleeping.
Sleep apnea often affects individuals who are overweight or obese. Losing weight can help to improve symptoms.
Nasal passages should be kept clear while sleeping. Those with allergies or sinus problems may find that using nasal sprays will help keep nasal passages open.
Smoking can also cause symptoms to worsen. Giving up the smoking habit can help improve symptoms. If these preventive actions do not help and daytime sleepiness continues, a more aggressive treatment may be needed.
When lifestyle changes do not offer improvement, the physician may recommend that the patient wear an oral appliance that adjusts the tongue and lower jaw, to help keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are custom made by a dentist or an orthodontist. The mouthpiece is made of plastic and is specifically designed as a treatment device for this condition. Mouthpieces are usually recommended for patients with mild cases of apnea.
Those with moderate to severe sleep apnea may need to use a breathing apparatus called a CPAP machine. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. This machine is the most popular recommended treatment for moderate to severe cases of this disorder. CPAP machines work with a mask that must be worn by the apnea sufferer. The machine works by gently blowing air into the throat while sleeping. As the air presses on the airway walls, it keeps the airway open, allowing proper breathing.
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