What Is Sleep Apnea?

A doctor can diagnose the disorder using a sleep study, medical history, and physical examination. If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, you’re at an increased risk for car crashes, work-related accidents, and other medical conditions. Treatments range from simple lifestyle changes to breathing devices. Some doctors recommend a combination of treatment methods. Learn about your treatment options to determine whether your condition is treatable.

Symptoms of sleep apnea include daytime drowsiness, irritability, and moodiness. A snoring disorder can disrupt a person’s sleep, affecting the entire family. Daytime grogginess can make it difficult to focus and be productive. If it occurs at night, a patient may also have trouble concentrating. They may be less productive at work. Patients may also have problems focusing and being irritable. If you suspect sleep apnea, see a medical professional for a diagnosis.

Treatments for sleep apnea may include oral appliances. Some devices are worn inside the mouth or around the head to adjust the position of the lower jaw. Others use a device that moves the tongue to keep the airway open. Treatments may include a variety of lifestyle changes to mitigate symptoms. Although surgery is not a cure for sleep apnea, it is a good option for some patients.

Is There Any Relationship Between Food And Sleep Apnea?

There is a strong link between food and sleep apnea. Eat foods rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted by the brain into the neurotransmitter serotonin and melatonin. Turkey is high in tryptophan, but you can get this nutrient from other foods, too. Bananas are a good source of fibre and potassium but can increase mucus production and aggravate breathing problems. Additionally, consider the functional medicine approach to sleep problems to identify the root cause of the problem and restore healthy sleep. To restore biochemical balance and sound sleep, a functional medicine doctor can devise a customized protocol based on diet changes, lifestyle adjustments, and supplements.

Late-night eating may worsen apnea and disrupt sleep. It is thought that the timing of meals affects the onset and severity of apnea. However, meal timing isn’t an independent risk factor. There is no definitive association between late-night eating and sleep apnea. Further studies are needed to confirm the association between late-night meal timing and apnea severity.

List Of The Activities That Can Help Soothe Sleep Apnea

Bananas are delicious and packed with healthy nutrients. Unfortunately, bananas don’t offer much help for people who are trying to alleviate sleep apnea, because they contribute to the production of mucus, which can exacerbate breathing problems while sleeping. The best way to avoid this problem is to avoid bananas altogether. Green bananas are least likely to increase mucus production, while riper and sweeter bananas may contribute.

Fruits and vegetables

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables to avoid excess mucus in the mouth, which can worsen the symptoms of sleep apnea. Low-fat dairy products are also beneficial, as they are packed with protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Also, these foods keep you full longer. You can substitute whole milk, heavy cream, and part-skim mozzarella cheese with low-fat dairy alternatives. Avoid foods that contain saturated fat, such as bananas, as they tend to increase mucus production, which can worsen sleep apnea symptoms.

Exercise

For people with sleep apnea, breathing exercises may be beneficial. Exercises for the palate, which is located on the roof of the mouth, can open the airways and relax muscles. Breathing exercises for the palate include exercises that strengthen the tongue, which is a major cause of sleep apnea. Other exercises can help you breathe easier at night, such as singing or slowly pronouncing vowel sounds. Of course, these exercises are not meant to be a substitute for a doctor’s advice.

Body positioning pillow

While there is no single pillow that is guaranteed to cure sleep apnea, body positioning pillows can help you get a better night’s sleep. They are made to support the neck and head and keep the body in an elevated position while sleeping. They can also be used to combat snoring or other sleep disorders. Body pillows are available in many styles, shapes, and materials. Whether you prefer a soft or firm pillow, it’s best to choose one that supports your entire body.

Avoiding high-fat dairy products

People with sleep apnea should stay away from high-fat dairy products. This includes cheese, ice cream, yoghurt, and fatty meats. Even though dairy products are great sources of protein, saturated fat is a bad choice for people with sleep apnea. Instead, opt for low-fat milk or part-skim mozzarella cheese.

Avoiding bananas

People with sleep apnea are encouraged to avoid bananas. Bananas can worsen the condition because they make mucus production increase, which can interfere with breathing during sleep. However, overripe bananas are particularly problematic. Avoiding bananas while sleeping may result in fewer episodes of sleep apnea, which is good for the overall health. Also, losing weight can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea.

Though this is a theory, there are many benefits of eating bananas before bed. You can ask your physician or can research for yourself the proper pros of eating bananas. 

Didgeridoo

Didgeridoo plays are an alternative remedy for sleep disorder apnea. A Brazilian study found that players of the didgeridoo experienced a mild improvement in sleep apnea. Didgeridoo players breathe in and out through the nose and mouth in a circular pattern. This practice helps strengthen the muscles of the upper airway, allowing continuous sound to be produced.

Humidifiers

A humidifier is a handy device for people suffering from sleep apnea. The device adds moisture to the air, reducing snoring and other symptoms of a dry nose. Dry air also irritates the body and respiratory system, and a humidifier can help relieve these conditions. You can use a humidifier near your bed or on a shelf. If your sleep apnea is severe, you should consult with a doctor to ensure that you can use a humidifier safely.

Lastly

Sleep apnea is caused by pauses in breathing that occur during sleep. This can last anywhere from a few seconds to a minute. The collapse of soft tissue during sleep also causes snoring. A patient’s quality of sleep can be greatly improved through certain lifestyle changes, including limiting electronic use before bedtime. Also, a dark, cool environment is ideal for sleep.