Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA causes patients to lose sleep and feel exhausted during the day. The disorder occurs when the soft tissues in the throat and mouth become overly relaxed, collapsing and blocking airflow. The patient stops breathing until the brain wakes them, which can happen hundreds of times per night, even if the patient doesn’t remember these episodes. In addition to comfortable treatment options, such as an oral appliance, you can also take steps to address sleep apnea at home.
4 Ways You Can Address Sleep Apnea
- Lose weight: Obesity is a major risk factor of OSA. By losing weight through diet and exercise, you can improve your overall health and reduce the risk of OSA.
- Change sleep positions: Sleeping on your back can sometimes make the chances of soft tissue blocking airways more likely. You can try sleeping your side to help airways remain unobstructed and prevent cessation of breathing.
- Alter your bedroom environment: Your bedroom should be dark, cool, and free from distractions, such as TVs, computers, or smartphones. In addition, you should also alter your sleeping habits. We suggest going to sleep and waking up at the same times every day. A routine sleep schedule can help you rest better.
- Avoid alcohol before bed: You should avoid alcohol in the two to four hours before going to bed. While alcohol can make you feel sleepy initially, it increases the chances of soft tissue becoming overly relaxed and blocking airflow. If you have any questions about treating or preventing sleep apnea episodes, then please contact our office today.
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.