For severe sleep apnea the best treatment is typically C.P.A.P (continuous positive airway pressure). If you suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnea however, there are a few other treatment options you could try.
For those who suffer from substantial or severe sleep apnea, CPAP is generally the first and most effective treatment option.
But for those people who suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea there are a few of other treatment options that may help to lessen symptoms and allow you to get a good night's sleep.
Remember, it's important to consult with your doctor before making lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle Changes
There are a number of lifestyle changes that could help to treat, or even prevent, the symptoms of mild sleep apnea.
While these simple lifestyle changes may not work for everyone, they may be worth trying if you're ready to get a good night's sleep.
Lose Weight
Losing weight can be a good first step in relieving your sleep apnea symptoms. According to recent studies, patients who lose 10% of their body weight may experience as much as a 30% decrease in their sleep apnea symptoms!
This may be because people who are overweight tend to have extra tissue around their airway. Losing weight typically shrinks this excess tissue, allowing air to flow more freely to the lungs.
Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives
Your airway could become restricted due to the effects of sedatives and alcohol, which may relax the throat muscles. If you suffer from sleep apnea, it may be a good idea to avoid alcohol and sedatives.
Avoid Sleeping On Your Back
Sleeping on your back allows gravity to pull on the tissues at the back of your throat, possibly causing your airway to narrow or even completely collapse.
If possible, train yourself to sleep on your side instead.
You can do this by propping pillows up against your back to prevent you from rolling over, or by placing a tennis ball in your back pyjama pocket when you go to bed.
Dental Appliances
Your dentist could recommend, and fit you for, a dental appliance to wear when you go to sleep.
By holding your tongue and jaw forward so that they don't slip backwards and block your airway, these dental appliances can help you to reduce your sleep apnea symptoms and get a good night's sleep..
Two types of dental appliances are available for treating obstructive sleep apnea:
- Fixed dental appliances fit over your teeth. They can not be adjusted.
- Adjustable dental appliances which can be fitted to suit the size and shape of your mouth.