Without healthy sleep habits, the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may increase, especially for patients 55 and older. In today’s blog, we’re going to look at five different options to improve your ability to rest and hopefully, help you avoid OSA. Remember, we’re here to help our Pearland, TX, residents enjoy a better night’s rest!
Better Sleep Habits
- Maintain a Sleep Schedule: Did you know waking up and going to bed at the same times every day, regardless of weekends or holidays, can be beneficial? Operating on a routine sleep schedule can train your body and help you fall asleep easier and enjoy a better night’s rest!
- Watch What You Eat/Drink Before Bed: In the two hours before going to bed, try to avoid caffeinated beverages or large meals, which could make falling asleep difficult. While alcohol can make you feel sleepy, too much alcohol before bed could prevent you from reaching the REM stage of sleep and cause you to wake up in the night. Also, try to avoid vigorous exercise right before going to bed as well.
- Sleep on Your Side: When we sleep on our back, the risk of snoring and sleep apnea episodes actually increases, as the collapse of soft tissues in the throat and mouth becomes more likely. Instead, try to sleep on your side when possible. Placing a pillow between your knees can help make this position more comfortable. Also, try to make sure your bedroom is dark and cool, which promotes a better resting environment.
- Avoid Screens: Watching TV while in bed, or looking at a computer or laptop screen right before laying down, could make falling asleep difficult. Likewise, staring at a smartphone screen could also have a negative impact, as the blue light the device emits mimics sunlight to your brain, making the process of going to bed more difficult. So, try to resist the urge to look at your phone right before bed or if you wake up in the night.
- Let Us Know If Your Snore: You should also know when to contact us about treatment. Be aware of the warning signs of obstructive sleep apnea. Many people report chronic, nightly snoring, or headaches and dry mouth. Other symptoms may include daytime drowsiness, moodiness, and episodes of waking suddenly in the night gasping for air or choking. If you often feel exhausted during the day, despite supposedly sleeping the night before, then please contact our team today. We an offer a home sleep test to diagnose the issue, and help us decide the best course of action!
Do You Snore?
If you experience symptoms of sleep apnea, despite having healthy sleep habits, then please let us know right away. For more information on treating OSA, please call Houston Sleep Solutions in Spring, TX, at (281) 320-2000, or in Pearland, TX, at (832) 564-3508.
