Despite popular opinion, men aren’t the only ones who suffer from sleep apnea. Women are also at risk of this condition. Fortunately, a sleep apnea diagnosis doesn’t have to be permanent—try making these simple changes to make your sleep apnea temporary.
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Stay Active
Regular exercise minimizes sleep apnea’s effects, boosts your energy, and protects the heart. One specific exercise regimen that’s highly effective is yoga, which bolsters your respiratory system and increases the flow of oxygen. Sleep apnea occurs because of a reduced blood oxygen saturation. Yoga’s many breathing techniques can aid you in increasing your oxygen levels. You can expect fewer troubles and wakeups throughout the night with improved airflow.
Add a Humidifier
If your bedroom air feels dry, it may affect your respiratory system and trigger your sleep apnea. The best way to fend off this problem is to use a humidifier, which widens the airways and eliminates congestion, facilitating a clear passage as you breathe. Pairing a humidifier with natural oils such as lavender and eucalyptus can do wonders for treating sleep apnea. The essential oils are useful because of their anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
Alter Your Sleeping Position
People tend to fall into one sleeping position they feel comfortable with, whether it’s their back, side, or stomach. However, the best position for alleviating sleep apnea complications is the side. The supine position (lying on your back) causes more harm because you’re cutting off your airflow as your chin rests downward. A side position allows for a steady flow of air, reducing many symptoms of sleep apnea.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Doctors often suggest weight loss for people afflicted with sleep apnea. When the upper body carries extra weight, it might heighten the risk of airway blockage and constricted nasal passages. These blockages might induce abrupt or prolonged cessation of breathing during sleep. You might start noticing improved results even after losing a small amount of weight, and if there’s a steady, healthy downward trend in your weight, your sleep apnea may go away entirely. However, it may return if you don’t continue your strict routine.
These simple changes can go a long way in making your sleep apnea a temporary condition. The hassle of maintaining a CPAP machine can cause frustration, so consider altering your lifestyle and how you sleep to finally shelve the device.
