Many people who snore, may also be suffering from sleep apnea. However, most people don’t want to see a specialist because they are scared they will be told they have to use a C-PAP machine for the rest of their life or have to have major surgery. With over 80% of obstructive sleep apnea cases left undiagnosed, what can you do to cure sleep naturally? Can you even cure sleep apnea naturally? The answer is yes! There are some cases of sleep apnea that will require medical treatment, especially in severe cases. If you believe that you may be suffering from sleep apnea it’s vital to your health that you make an appointment for a consultation with a sleep specialist. Mild and moderate cases of sleep apnea can usually be treated at home naturally, while others may not. Don’t let the fear of being hooked up to a machine keep you from getting checked for sleep apnea.
If you sleep apnea is mild or moderate your physician will likely suggest the following natural ways to cure sleep apnea.
Get to and Maintain a Healthy Weight
If you’re overweight, you have a higher risk of gaining weight inside your neck. This may sound strange, but extra weight on your throat causes your airway to collapse when your muscles are relaxed. Measuring your neck is one way to know if you are at risk for sleep apnea. Women’s necks should be no bigger than 15 inches around and men’s necks should be under 17 inches. If your neck is larger then either of these measurements, losing weight will help to significantly decrease your chances of sleep apnea. Talk to your physician about starting an exercise and diet plan that is right for you.
Avoid Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Smokers are three times more likely to have sleep apnea then those who have never smoked a cigarette, as if you needed another reason to quit. Stop smoking today and try to avoid excessively drinking as well. Alcohol has been proven to overly relax the throat muscles and disturb sleep in general. If you do plan on drinking, limit yourself to two drinks and try to have them at least three hours before you go to bed.
Adjust Your Sleeping Position
Quitting smoking, losing weight and adding exercise into your routine are amazing and natural ways to cure sleep apnea ,as well as improve your overall health. There is one drawback though, they take time. For a quicker fix try adjusting your sleeping position. Elevating your head and sleeping on your side are two ways that you can adjust your sleeping position in order to remove the chance of obstructing your airway while you sleep. There are even special pillows that can be used for snorers and people with sleep apnea.
Temporary Sleep Device
As mentioned above, though sleep apnea can be cured naturally it does take some time. Consider using a sleep device or snore guard for a little bit, until your symptoms are gone naturally. Talk with your sleep specialist about sleep device options that may work for you, while you treat sleep apnea naturally.
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