Sleep is a valuable resource that must be gathered on a regular basis to maintain your body’s health. While most people have had a night or two in their lives where they simply couldn’t get to sleep, individuals who struggle with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may face this challenge on a nightly basis.
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Lifestyle Changes To Make The Most Of Your New CPAP Machine
If you currently struggle with sleep apnea, it’s important to consult with your doctor to determine the best approach for garnering a full night of rest. Up to 7 percent of men and up to 5 percent of women are currently dealing with OSA, making this issue one that is both unhealthy and more prevalent than ever. Lehan’s Medical Supplies & Equipment is here to provide all of the medical equipment Illinois residents need, delivering quality service in addition to our affordable products. Our inventory of CPAP supplies ensures that all of our customers will have the equipment they need to sleep soundly through the night. If you have considered purchasing a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, be sure to consult with your doctor, then let us help you with CPAP at our Rockford location.
While CPAP masks and machines are helpful for delivering continuous airflow to prevent obstructions, they are not the only tool that can improve your sleep. Today, we’ll highlight a few lifestyle changes that may help you fight sleep apnea in order to get a full night’s rest. When you’re done reading this post, be sure to shop at our medical supply store to find the best solutions for your health!
Changing Your Lifestyle
Sleep apnea is a common condition that often occurs without the individual’s knowledge. If you are worried about your sleep cycle and overall health, it may be helpful to try these lifestyle upgrades to minimize the dangers of sleep apnea and to promote your health. Anyone is at risk of suffering from sleep apnea, but individuals who are overweight, over the age of 50, have thicker necks, a family history of sleep apnea, smoke cigarettes, or who are black, hispanic, or Pacific Islanders can have a much higher chance of developing complications. It’s important to improve your daily habits in order to minimize the odds of OSA disrupting your sleep and health. People who do not suffer from sleep apnea can also benefit from many of these changes, as they are generally conducive for overall health improvements.
DIET AND EXERCISE
This first approach provides amazing improvements of individuals of all states of health. If you live a sedentary lifestyle and do not moderate your diet, the chances of developing chronic sleep apnea are much higher. The fatty tissue in the neck can be to blame for many cases of OSA, making weight loss a top priority for any sufferers of sleep apnea who are overweight. In general, losing those extra pounds will help you to reduce snoring, increase airflow, and have a better overall sleep experience.
What you eat can have a major impact in the obstruction of your airway while sleeping. Red meats, for example, are full of fats and proteins, making your body work harder to digest your meal while you are sleeping. Dark chocolate is the healthier choice when it comes to consuming cocoa, but be mindful that the sugar and caffeine boost can keep you up at night. Spicy foods can also create issues, causing discomfort and indigestion throughout the night. Doctors generally recommend avoiding heavy, fatty meal items before bedtime. Be sure to eat lighter before you lay down, focusing on foods that will promote a full night’s rest.
SLEEPING POSITIONS
The way you rest can affect the quality and consistency of your sleep. Sleeping on your back, for example, allows your tongue to fall back into your mouth and into the path of your airway. This combination of relaxed muscles and an obstructed throat can lead to OSA. While many people prefer to sleep in this supine position, your doctor will most likely advise you to roll over to avoid further issues.
Patients can also raise their heads further off the bed for more effective results. The general consensus is that sleeping on your sides will offer the most positive results. If you need assistance learning about your sleeping status in conjunction with our CPAP equipment, be sure to speak with one of our knowledgeable experts today!
HEALTHIER HABITS
Smokers who suffer from chronic sleep apnea may not be happy to hear that their habits are creating negative consequences when it comes to sleeping through the night. Smoking cigarettes creates a lot of smoke, which is known to be a serious irritant for the throat. When your throat swells up from heavy smoking, the likelihood of an obstruction increases dramatically.
Alcohol is another substance that can be detrimental to your sleep cycles. As an inhibition inhibitor, alcohol works as a suppressant in the body, causing muscles to loosen and relax. For sleepers who have imbibed, this can cause issues with relaxed muscles moving into the airway, creating an obstruction that may disrupt your rest. Doctors generally recommend cutting back on drinking (and smoking) to fight OSA issues, and they also suggest that you do not drink in the hours leading up to bedtime.
Taking control of your sleep apnea and making the essential changes can help you to rest more and awaken feeling more refreshed, delivering the energy you need to take the world on in stride. As a comprehensive provider of CPAP to Rockford patients, Lehan’s Medical Supplies & Equipment is here to serve as your quality source for medical equipment and support. Our collection of BiPAP and CPAP machines are both effective and affordable through your insurance. Contact us today with any questions you may have, or stop by our medical store to find the supplies needed to restore your health.
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