Sleep apnea is a medical condition where the person stops breathing for at least five seconds during the course of a sleep episode. When you wake up, it can be extremely difficult to stay alert and talk clearly. It can interfere with your quality of life and lead to depression.
The most common causes of this condition are sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea. Those who have this disorder don’t get enough rest because their mouth stops moving or partially opens during sleep. The muscles around the mouth relax and stop controlling the breathing.
The most effective treatment for sleep apnea is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine (CPAP). CPAP is a mask that you wear during sleep. The air passes through a face mask that gives you pressure on the throat and is similar to a dental appliance.
It is like oxygen masks that you can wear that give you an alternative to the CPAP. You can wear a humidifier that gives you water and exhaled gases as the machine blows air on your face. Another more uncomfortable alternative is a vacuum mattress.
Your doctor will help you decide which treatment is best for you. However, he or she can also decide if one treatment is better than another. This is why you should discuss this issue with your doctor.
These devices can also help you control your weight. Sleep apnea can make you gain weight especially when you are waking up from sleep. The body’s thermostat is no longer operating and you are taking in too much water during the night.
The best way to control your weight is to lose the extra pounds naturally. The quality of your sleep is directly related to your metabolic rate. If you are overweight, the body is unable to process the food efficiently.
Weight loss treatments are natural and you should definitely consider the use of a CPAP if you have sleep apnea. A CPAP machine is more expensive than other treatments. However, it is the only one that can provide relief to those who suffer from sleep apnea.
There are a number of websites available online that discuss sleep apnea. Many of these articles will recommend you get rid of sleep apnea before trying a treatment. They may even say that you should try another treatment to see if the first one works.
Well-meaning doctors may tell you that there is nothing they can do for you if you suffer from sleep apnea. But a person who has sleep apnea should never be ignored. You should contact your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of the symptoms.
They will show you how to deal with the problems you encounter and how you’re changing’s lifestyle can help you become healthier. It is unfortunate that many people do not learn this vital information. Many sleep apnea sufferers experience the benefits of getting the right treatment at the right time.
