Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea can be improved not only with the aid of a CPAP machine or oral appliances, but with behavioral changes.
Because sleep apnea is a chronic condition and does not simply disappear overnight, combining a treatment such as an oral appliance with lifestyle changes can improve the quality of your life. There are many treatments that are thought to be beneficial, some of them better explored than others.
Weight Loss
Being overweight or obese can be both a cause and an effect of sleep apnea. People with excess weight will have excess tissue that can block the airway during sleep. The resulting fatigue from a lack of restful sleep will make it hard to maintain an active lifestyle, and will encourage eating sugars and carbs for fast energy. During sleep, the body produces natural appetite suppressants during deep restorative sleep.
Even a small amount of weight loss can be extremely beneficial in improving the condition of your sleep apnea.
Avoid Alcohol and Pain Relievers
Because alcohol and pain relievers can relax the muscles in your throat, it can make sleep apnea symptoms worse. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking these products within four hours of going to bed.
Dr. Louie is a dentist who offers sleep apnea treatment to patients in Los Angeles and the surrounding communities. If you have any questions about this condition, please don’t hesitate to call us and make an appointment.
Other Things that May Help:
- Quitting smoking
- Controlling allergies
- Myofunctional therapy (or “tongue-thrusting”)
- Singing exercises
- Positional therapy, including making sure to sleep on your side
Dr. Louie is a dentist specializing in sleep medicine who helps sleep apnea patients in Los Angeles and the surrounding area. Don’t struggle with this life-threatening condition on your own. Call the Los Angeles Center for Sleep Apnea today and make an appointment with us. We’ll help you get to a good night’s sleep.