Sleep apnea is a condition that affects how you breathe when sleeping. During sleep, normal breathing can be interrupted for 10 seconds or more hundreds of times during a single night. Untreated, it prevents you from getting enough deep, restorative sleep. Without enough deep sleep you may be sleepy, lack mental sharpness, and be less productive. Long-term health effects can be serious, including weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Insomnia
- Breathing pauses for long periods
- Waking up often at night
- Forgetfulness, irritability, depression
Home Treatments
- Avoid sleeping on your back, because your tongue is more likely to block your airway
- Elevate your head using extra pillows or a body wedge
- Open your nasal passage via breathing strips, saline nasal flush, or a nasal dilator
- Lose weight
- Exercise
Treatments For Moderate To Severe Sleep Apnea
- Talk to a doctor trained in sleep apnea
- Use supplemental oxygen while sleeping
- Use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure) machine
- Oral appliances made by Dr. Travis Hunsaker’s office to help keep your airway open
