How to Get Rid of Sleep Apnea?

People have long made jokes about snoring and have taken it lightly when the truth about snoring is far more disturbing. As for sleep apnea, the fact that it is viewed as medical/health condition probably helped attract more serious attention. Perhaps the best way to look at sleep apnea and snoring is to study them and work to treat them in combination.

Snoring First
Consider first the problem that snoring causes for others. Loud, consistent snoring disrupts the sleep of others. Lack of sleep can be the starting point for serious health problems simply because we all need sufficient rest to work and play in a normal manner. It’s important for those who snore and for family members to take some simple steps to stop this disturbing activity. In some cases, a simple mouthpiece that keeps the airway open will solve the problem.

But let’s look at the next step – sleep apnea.
In sleep apnea, breathing temporarily stops during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea involves tissue near the base of the tongue blocking the path of air. This is a condition that can seriously affect our health. The most serious effect is the reduction of oxygen we take in. A brain deprived of oxygen for even a short time can suffer extensive, life-changing damage. To attack snoring and sleep apnea it may be necessary to employ an electric-powered breathing apparatus. These require hoses and masks, which is more than inconvenient for some people. That’s why some who suffer from breathing problems, snoring and sleep apnea have moved to simpler methods, such as the mouthpiece that helps open the airway for easier breathing.

Others have tried what is called the “pillar” procedure. This inserts small strips that help keep the airways open and reduce tissue vibration that causes the snoring sound. Talk with your doctor about this procedure, which may be an alternative to surgery that removes tissue causing the airway blockage.

You Can Try…
Deep breathing exercises and specific exercises to strengthen the neck area may have some effect on snoring and sleep apnea. In addition, weight gain contributes to sleep apnea because there is excess tissue throughout the body and because the lungs and heart must work harder to supply oxygen to more tissue. Research indicates that certain foods, such as high-fiber vegetables and fruits, as well as beans and lentils, may help reduce the incidence of snoring and oxygen deprivation during sleep.

In summary, you can try a mouthpiece that is specifically formed for your teeth and facial shape. When properly placed, this mouthpiece helps keep the airway open near the soft palate (base of the tongue). These should be prescribed and fitted by a medical professional. We mentioned more complex breathing apparatus earlier. While these can be difficult to use and uncomfortable for some, they do provide needed relief for those who suffer from sleep apnea. Surgery may be the last resort and should be a choice taken after a lot of study and discussion with family members and doctors.

 Print This Page