TREATMENT OPTIONS – Lifestyle modifications

Other sleep apnea treatment options

The following are some lifestyle changes that can help manage sleep apnea:

Weight loss Excess weight is the most common contributing factor to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

The excess weight around your neck and the effects of gravity exacerbate your sleep apnea by applying downward pressure on your airway.

Losing weight may help to reduce the severity of your OSA along with other health benefits.

It is a vicious cycle as some people with untreated sleep apnea may find it harder to lose weight; a poor night’s sleep will induce cravings for high calorie food and a lack of energy makes it difficult to exercise.

In some people, treating their sleep apnea first has aided weight loss.¹

Reduce alcohol, sleeping pills and other sedatives Avoid alcohol, medicines (such as sleeping pills) or other sedatives (natural or manufactured) before bed.

Alcohol acts as a sedative; it may cause your throat muscles to relax, exacerbating your sleep apnea.

Always speak to your doctor before stopping or changing any medication.

Quit smoking Quitting smoking may reduce the severity of your snoring and sleep apnea and improve other health conditions

Smoking may increase the severity of your snoring and sleep apnea. The poison in cigarettes can cause your airway to swell. Smoking also acts as a sedative.

All treatment options should be considered under the guidance of your sleep physician and doctor.

Referemce: 1. Romero-Corral, Abel, et al. “Interactions between obesity and obstructive sleep apnea: implications for treatment.” CHEST Journal 137.3 (2010): 711-719.