The brief pauses in breathing that sleep apnea causes can occur many dozens of time each night and can last 10 seconds or more each time. Many people don’t even know that they are doing it until someone else observes the problem. Once sleep apnea is identified, it is essential to find a solution.
Ramifications of sleep apnea
People who suffer from sleep apnea are sleep deprived.
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Accidents at work
- Lack of mental clarity
are only a few of the potential effects of sleep apnea. A host of health problems can result as well, including:
- High blood pressure
- Weight gain
- Diabetes
- Risk of stroke
- Cardiac arrest.
When the body is deprived of the oxygen it needs, there is bound to be serious consequences.
Find the right key to treat your sleep apnea
CPAP
Once sleep apnea has been diagnosed, effective treatment is a must. Many doctors will recommend CPAP, a continuous positive airway pressure device. This machine is connected to a sleep apnea victim at night, attached to a mask, forcing pressurized air into the airway throughout the night to ensure it does not become obstructed and the body receives sufficient oxygen.
However, this method is noisy and cumbersome. It can also get in the way of sleep, not only for the victim, but for the entire household. It simply is not the most practical answer when a person wants a tranquil night’s rest without being tied down to a machine.
CPAP alternatives
CPAP alternatives are available and could be an easy solution.
- Positional therapy, which involves sleeping in a position that is conducive to clearing the airway, is helpful for some victims of sleep apnea.
- Oral appliances and changes in lifestyle may make a difference, resolving airway blockage problems. For example, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol could eliminate sleep apnea symptoms.
- In rare cases, surgery is the best way to go.
Stop struggling
If you are struggling with sleep apnea, discuss your options with your dentist and find out what you can do without being chained down nightly to a CPAP device every night. If you would like to learn more about sleep apnea, please download my free e-book.