After all those years of wondering why you were so sleepy all the time, you got a diagnosis. You have obstructive sleep apnea and here are some guidelines to help you live with this disorder.

Snoring is risky for your health

You don’t have any breathing problems while you are awake – so why would you stop breathing while sleeping? During sleep our muscles relax, this includes the muscles in the mouth, neck and throat area. When this happens the tissue can drop down and block the airway – sleep apnea. If you have been diagnosed here are some suggestions for combating the disorder (outside of your CPAP or oral appliance treatment).

1. Go on a diet. Losing weight can make a huge difference for sleep apnea sufferers, even a 5% or 10% drop in body weight can reduce the incidence of breathing stoppages.
2. Exercise. This goes along with number 1 above. Not only does the exercise help with weight loss but you will sleep better because of it.
3. Sleep position is key. Don’t sleep on your back. There is a reason your bed partner pokes you to roll over when you are snoring, you probably will breath better on your side.
4. Plan your sleep. Make sure you get enough sleep each night and don’t try to “catch up” on weekends.
5. Avoid alcohol before bed. Alcohol relaxes the muscles even more so snoring and apnea events are more likely to occur.
6. Try singing lessons. Some say that this strengthens the throat muscles – it can’t hurt and you might find a new hobby!

If you find using your CPAP difficult or impossible – don’t give up on treating your sleep apnea. Oral appliance therapy is comfortable and easy. Most patients are much happier with their oral appliance and we know that they are more likely to continue using them over the long term.

Please contact Columbus sleep apnea dentist Dr. Mark Levy today at 614-476-6696 to schedule your consultation to see if oral appliance therapy is right for you.