Would you like to learn more about sleep apnea from Bogan Sleep Consultants located in Columbia, SC?

Sleep is vital for good health. Some people have a hard time sleeping because they suffer sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD), which are several repeated episodes of interrupted breathing or airflow.

What exactly is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea happens as a result of soft tissues near the back of the throat collapsing while you're asleep. This closes off the windpipe and hinders any air from entering. Someone suffering from sleep apnea may wake up 50 or more times per hour and people may have no recollection of it.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea may lead to serious issues like heart problems if you're not treated as soon as possible by a Columbia sleep specialist.

Here are a few symptoms you may experience if you have sleep apnea:

  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Irritability and morning headaches
  • Waking up with a sore or dry mouth
  • Poor memory/confusion
  • Accident proneness
  • Night sweats
  • Snoring
  • Forgetfulness, mood changes and lowered libido
  • Morning headaches
  • High blood pressure
  • Obesity

Sleep Apnea Treatment

There are several treatment options and lifestyle changes to manage your sleep apnea:

  • Lose weight: Being overweight and obesity is one of the main reasons people may suffer from sleep apnea. Choosing to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eating healthy and exercising.
  • Avoid alcohol: Aside from being high in calories, alcohol may cause nighttime awakenings and also relaxes muscles in the breathing airway which blocks the passage of air while someone is sleeping.
  • Quit smoking: Cigarette smoking swells upper airway passages, worsening sleep apnea and snoring.
  • Sleeping position: People suffering from mild sleep apnea and/or heavy snoring should sleep on their sides as opposed to their backs to reduce breathing problems.

Do you think you have symptoms that align with sleep apnea? Do you want to learn more about sleep apnea? If so, make sure you call Bogan Sleep Consultants in Columbia, SC, for more information today.