Obstructive Sleep apnea is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there is no one cause for sleep apnea, there are many circumstances which can contribute to this disease, including excessive weight, smoking, and genetics. Thankfully, there are several treatment options for sleep apnea, including custom sleep orthotics from Dr. Abelar, which are molded to fit your individual mouth, and position the jaw comfortably to allow the airway to open so you can breathe easily while reclined.
But reducing your sleep apnea symptoms is a concerted effort. This means it’s recommended that you treat your sleep apnea by making lifestyle changes in addition to wearing your orthotic on a consistent basis. Here are just a few ideas for helping to reduce the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, and leave you feeling great!
Exercise
While you may not be ready for a full workout, starting small by stretching, walking, or practicing a low impact exercise regimen like yoga can be extremely beneficial in both helping you sleep better, and by getting your body in better shape. This can improve breathing and even help you lose weight, which in turn can lessen your sleep apnea symptoms.
Consistent Sleep
When it comes to sleep apnea, consistency is key. Setting yourself a regular bedtime and going to sleep at a reasonable hour can help you carve out more sleep time, and feel more rested. This can also help keep some of your sleep apnea symptoms under control.
Reduce Stress
Stress is often an unavoidable fact of life. The key to reducing stress is to not put yourself in stressful situations, and when in stressful situations work to reduce your stress levels. This can come in the form of meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and in many cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications. Leading a low stress lifestyle can help you
Improve Your Diet
Improving your diet has myriad health benefits, including helping you sleep better or even losing excess weight. A healthy diet is better for your overall health, and can help mitigate negative side effects of sleep apnea. It can help you sleep better by reducing things like indigestion, and boosting your immune system so you can better fight off colds.
While it’s likely that no one solution can completely cure your sleep apnea, these tips, in combination with sleep orthotic therapy from Dr. Abelar can help improve symptoms and help you get a better night’s sleep.
To learn more about sleep orthotics from Dr. Abelar, please contact the office for a consultation today.
