Reduce Your Symptoms at Home
If you or someone you know is struggling with sleep apnea, you know how disruptive and frustrating it can be. Sleep apnea can interfere with restful sleep, leading to daytime fatigue, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Along with prescribed sleep apnea treatments like CPAP or oral appliance therapy, some patients are interested in exploring natural remedies to help reduce their symptoms.
By using natural remedies, sleep apnea patients can proactively manage their health and improve their overall quality of life. Read as Dr. Rebecca Lauck of North Texas Sleep Solution discusses her tips for naturally minimizing sleep apnea symptoms in our blog.
Lifestyle Changes
Exercise and Weight Loss
Working out during the day and losing weight have holistic benefits that can reduce sleep apnea symptoms. Working out helps you sleep by regulating your body’s circadian rhythm, which is your internal clock regulating your sleep-wake cycle. When you exercise regularly, your body learns to recognize the difference between daytime and nighttime, and your circadian rhythm becomes more regular and predictable.
The muscles and tissue around your throat will become more toned as you make exercising part of your routine. This toning can help your airway remain clear at night and reduce or stop sleep apnea symptoms.
Reduce Alcohol Consumption
Another key lifestyle change for sleep apnea is to avoid alcohol and sedatives. These substances relax the muscles in your throat and cause your airway to collapse, leading to breathing difficulties during sleep. Avoiding them or reducing their consumption can help improve sleep apnea symptoms.
Change Sleeping Position
Sleeping on your side instead of your back is another effective natural solution for sleep apnea. That’s because sleeping on your back can cause the tongue and soft tissues in your throat to collapse and block your airway. However, sleeping on your side can help keep your airway open and reduce breathing disruptions during sleep.
Natural Aides
Essential Oils
Essential oils, such as lavender and eucalyptus, have natural relaxing properties that can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. You can diffuse these oils in your bedroom or add them to a warm bath before bedtime to relax and calm your mind.
Honey and Tumeric
Honey is another natural remedy that may reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe during sleep. Try adding a teaspoon of honey to a cup of warm water or herbal tea before bedtime.
Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties for the airways and improves breathing during sleep. You can add turmeric to your meals or take a turmeric supplement before bedtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can natural remedies cure sleep apnea?
Natural remedies may help alleviate sleep apnea symptoms, but they aren’t a cure for the condition. You should always seek medical diagnosis and treatment for sleep apnea to ensure proper management and care. Any natural remedies should accompany the treatment your sleep dentist prescribes rather than replacing them.
Are there any risks associated with using natural remedies for sleep apnea?
Some natural remedies, such as essential oils, can cause allergic reactions or irritate the skin. Additionally, you should always consult a medical professional before implementing any exercise routine. Dentists recommend using natural remedies carefully and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Is it safe to use natural remedies for sleep apnea alongside medical treatments?
As with any condition, you should consult a medical professional before beginning treatment. It’s important to talk to your sleep dentist before using any natural remedies for sleep apnea alongside medical treatments. They can advise you on the best course of action on how to implement these lifestyle changes into your daily routine.
How much weight do I need to lose to see improvement in my sleep apnea symptoms?
You may not need to lose weight for exercise to affect your sleep apnea symptoms. As you add working out to your daily routine, the muscles around your throat may become more toned, allowing your airways to stay clear throughout the night. This toning may occur without any weight loss.
Help Restore Your Sleep Naturally
Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on your quality of life. But natural solutions and lifestyle changes can alleviate symptoms and improve your overall health. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and sleeping on your side are all effective natural remedies for sleep apnea. Additionally, essential oils, honey, and turmeric can provide additional relief.
If you’re looking for more comprehensive natural solutions, Dr. Lauck at North Texas Sleep Solutions can help you find the answers. With the proper care and support, you can take control of your sleep apnea and enjoy a better night’s sleep. Schedule your appointment by calling (817) 431-6764 or filling out our online contact form.