Are you happy to report that you have been keeping up with your sleep apnea treatment to ensure your airways remain open while you sleep? Are you not so happy, however, to report that you’re not really sure whether you’re making good lifestyle choices to promote the success of that treatment? Don’t worry. We are glad to offer some suggestions, which will give you a clearer picture of how to experience your best sleep yet.
Avoid Relaxants
You will want to do your best to avoid drinking or consuming anything that relaxes your muscles at night. While meditation, yoga, or listening to calming music will allow you to let go of anxiety and muscle tension (three practices we highly recommend, by the way), artificial relaxants go too far. Alcohol, sleep medicine, or otherwise cause your muscles to relax rather than remain alert. As a result, your throat muscles relax and are more prone to collapse (leading obstructed airways).
Treat Congestion
Don’t let congestion get in the way of your sleep apnea treatment. If your sinuses, nasal passages, or throat are inflamed or if you are experiencing significant congestion, this can become a stumbling block. Congestion is a contributing factor to snoring and can exacerbate sleep apnea by partially blocking your ability to breathe. Take the necessary measures to clear up any existing congestion.
Try A New Sleeping Position
Did you know that sleeping on your back contributes to sleep apnea – potentially getting in the way of sleep apnea treatment – because it allows soft oral tissues to slide back, partially obstructing your throat (and airways)? Try sleeping on your side or your stomach for easy, successful breathing.
Visit Our Office in Baxter, MN!
Dr. Clinton L. Roberts and the friendly staff at Greenhaven Family Dental are happy to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile with a comprehensive approach to general dentistry. With years of training and experience in dental sleep medicine, Dr. Roberts is also adept at helping patients treat snoring and sleep apnea so they can rest more easily (and quietly). To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, call our office in Baxter, MN, today at (218) 454-0523. We proudly welcome patients from Brainerd, Little Falls, Staples, Crosby-Ironton-Deerwood, and all surrounding communities.