Sleep apnea is a condition that prevents an individual from breathing properly while sleeping. Those suffering from this condition momentarily stop breathing during periods of rest. The severity varies from person to person, depending on what is causing the condition. The person's airflow may be obstructed, or there may be a problem with the way his or her brain gives the signals that trigger breathing.
Many people suffering from more mild forms of sleep apnea may not be aware there is a problem. While the person is at rest, those closest to him or her can listen for extremely loud snoring, mouth breathing, gasping or snorting. A sleep apnea sufferer may also experience restless nights, which results in extreme tiredness during the day. Once it has been determined that the problem is more serious than basic snoring, family members or loved ones should encourage the individual to see a healthcare provider.
A person dealing with this condition may not want to see a doctor. In this case, family members can persist in their support by explaining the possible consequences of ignoring the problem. Sleep apnea can lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and high blood pressure. Physical and emotional health problems can occur daily as well. These include headaches, anxiety, depression, forgetfulness, weight gain and problems urinating.
Assisting the person with the individual's treatment plan is another good way to show support. Loved ones can participate in certain aspects of the treatment. If the person is told to make dietary changes or stop smoking, loved ones can make the same changes as a sign of encouragement. When medication is prescribed, a supportive family member can take an active role by dispensing the medication each day.
In addition to supporting the individual with lifestyle changes, family members can show encouragement by helping to ease the person's anxiety. A loved one can accompany the individual to doctor appointments or scheduled surgeries. Some sufferers are given sleep apnea machines, or continuous positive airway pressure machines, which provide continuous airflow to the person during rest. Loved ones can remind the person to use the machine, and they can reiterate its importance.
When a person suffers from sleep apnea, the blocked airflow or malfunctioning central nervous system prevents his or her lungs from expanding enough to fill with oxygen. Lack of oxygen in the blood can cause a number of more serious problems. Family members or loved ones of a sleep apnea sufferer should provide ample support that will lead to proper treatment. The right amount of encouragement from loved ones can help keep a sleep apnea sufferer healthy.
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