Obstructive sleep apnea is a common problem that causes the airways to block or collapse while you sleep. It can also make your breathing stop for twenty to thirty seconds at a time throughout the night. Not addressing this issue at an early stage increases the risk factor of suffering from other health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease, headaches, etc.
What Are The Common Signs Of Sleep Apnea?
The most challenging factor about sleep apnea is that it mostly goes unnoticed. Keeping this in mind, we have provided the warning signs of sleep apnea in the section below.
If You Are A Noisy Sleeper
Noisy sleep might indicate that there is an obstruction in your upper airway. You need to realize that not all snorers have sleep apnea, but the two usually go hand in hand. The chances of having sleep apnea become more prominent as the snoring gets louder and louder.
If You Are Restless During The Sleep
Individuals with sleep apnea are more likely to turn and toss, showing signs of sleep apnea throughout the nighttime. If you find yourself jerking, thrashing, kicking, or waking up multiple times while sleeping at night, chances are you are suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep becomes disrupted when you struggle to breathe at night due to sleep apnea.
If You Feel Tired All The Time
Sleep apnea can affect your sleep quality if you feel tired all day, even after having a full night of sleep. You will be more susceptible to work mistakes, be less productive and irritable throughout the day. You might also catch more colds as poor-quality sleep can interfere with your immunity.
If You Fit The Profile
Some individuals are more prone to have obstructive sleep apnea. For example, men are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea than women. Though, the risk of women increases after menopause. Lastly, being overweight or obsessed can also contribute to sleep apnea.
Talk to your doctor if you notice any of the above-mentioned signs. He/she will identify the problem and suggest you a suitable treatment plan.
What Are The Lifestyle And Home Remedies For Sleep Apnea?
Adopting a few home remedies can help resolve minor cases of sleep apnea. We have provided the tips to follow in the pointers below:
- Lose some weight – If you are obese or overweight, even a moderate loss of excess weight can help relieve constriction of your airway. Losing weight will also improve your quality of life and health and can reduce your issue of daytime sleepiness.
- Avoid alcohol, and certain medications – Consumption of alcohol and some medications, such as anti-anxiety pills and sleeping pills, can worsen the issue of obstructive sleep apnea and daytime sleepiness.
- Exercise – Exercises such as aerobics and strength training can help improve your condition. Aim to work out for at least 150 minutes a week and try to do it every day of the week.
- Keep your nasal passages open while sleeping – You can use a saline nasal spray to keep your nasal passages open if you have congestion. Talking to your doctor before using such a nasal spray is better, as some medications should only be used for a short span.
We hope you now better understand the warning signs of sleep apnea. Here at Dr. Sam Harouni Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery, we provide top-quality sleep apnea treatment in Beverly Hills, California. Contact us if you are suffering complications related to sleep apnea.
Expert Oral Care at Your Fingertips
Experience exceptional oral care tailored to your needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment and explore the transformative possibilities for your oral health. Your brighter smile is just a call away.
