Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that occurs when your throat muscles relax during sleep, blocking your airways and disrupting your breathing. If you have been diagnosed with OSA, your healthcare provider will provide a treatment plan. This may include using a medical device like a CPAP machine, as well as self-care measures you can take at home. Manage Stress Living with OSA can be stressful, especially if you are sleep-deprived or worried about your health. Some research shows sleep apnea can cause an increase in cortisol, your body’s stress hormone. If you find you are feeling more irritable or stressed, take steps to reduce your stress levels. Excess stress could worsen your sleep apnea and make it harder for you to sleep. Change Sleep Positions If you have sleep apnea and you tend to snore a lot or gasp for breath at night, you may want to consider your sleeping position. Sleep medicine experts have found that side sleeping, in particular, may reduce snoring and help keep your airways open when you are resting Adjusting your sleeping position can reduce the severity of your sleep apnea by up to 50%, especially when you move from sleeping on your back to sleeping on your side. Elevating the head of your bed may also allow you to sleep better. The key is to find the sleeping position that provides the most restful sleep for you. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene When you have sleep apnea, it becomes increasingly important that you practice good sleep hygiene. This means not only prioritizing sleep every night, but also sticking to a routine and making your bedroom relaxing and conducive to sleep.
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Managing snoring and sleep challengesleep and sleep managementsleep and stress managementSleep Disorders
Eight Ways To Improve Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms Naturally
