What are the next steps after being diagnosed with sleep apnea? Getting a CPAP is the obvious answer, but what about diet and lifestyle changes that could improve your sleep apnea symptoms? CPAP Central has a few suggestions when it comes to sleep apnea treatment that you can do in addition to CPAP use.
CPAP Use
Read carefully – THE CPAP DOESN’T WORK IF YOU DON’T WEAR IT. This is the first and most important sleep apnea treatment statement of this article. Far too often, individuals suffering from sleep apnea opt to wear their CPAP maybe once a week or wear it for only part of the night. If this sounds like you, we recommend trying different CPAP masks to see which fits your face and sleep style best. For assistance or CPAP mask recommendations, contact CPAP Central today! Our online chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST.
Stop Smoking
Besides the increased risk for many other health conditions, smoking actually makes the swelling in your airway worse thus making your sleep apnea symptoms even worse. CPAP Central recommends that you stop smoking as soon as possible.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
While the occasional drink is fine, too much drinking leads to decreased muscle tone in the back of the throat. This dramatically interferes with breathing and will aggravate your sleep apnea symptoms.
Lose Weight
Obesity is one of the most common contributing factors to sleep apnea, and can nearly eliminate sleep apnea symptoms if substantial weight loss is achieved. Not all individuals with sleep apnea are overweight, but large percentages are. Whether you are overweight or not, having an unhealthy diet also contributes to sleep apnea, so try to stick to a healthy diet either way. CPAP Central encourages you to lose even a modest amount of weight or maintain a healthy diet to improve sleep apnea symptoms.
In addition to using your CPAP regularly, the healthy lifestyle described above will bring great value to your overall health. If you have any questions about CPAP supplies or how to treat your sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today!