Have you noticed that your sleep apnea symptoms seem to be getting worse? Do you struggle to get the rest you need but are unsure why? You’re not alone. Many individuals are left wondering what is causing their inability to breathe freely. What you may not realize is that certain habits and even medications can be the culprit. Read on to learn what might be the cause of your worsening symptoms and how a trusted sleep dentist can help.
4 Factors That Are Causing Your Sleep Apnea to Worsen
Whether you have yet to receive treatment for your sleep apnea, or you are already working with a sleep dentist to combat your symptoms, certain factors can negatively affect you. Some may be more obvious than others; however, the following are four culprits that may be keeping you from restful sleep:
- Medications such as muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and even painkillers can make it hard to improve your sleep apnea symptoms. Although they may be helpful in certain ways, these medicines tend to cause the muscles in your throat to relax, resulting in a blocked airway.
- Alcohol consumption may be something you enjoy as a way to wind down in the evenings, but no matter the type of spirit you consume, it can lead to airway obstruction. Similar to certain medications, alcohol can relax the muscles, causing the tongue to fall back onto the throat.
- Sleep position is often a factor that is not surprising to many. Laying on your back can make it easier for the airway to become blocked; however, turning on your side reduces the likelihood that your tongue or soft palate will become a problem.
- Smoking causes the soft oral tissues to swell, resulting in a blocked airway. No matter if it is cigarettes, cigars, electronic cigarettes, or any other type of tobacco product, the same irritation can occur, making interrupted sleep more likely.
How a Sleep Dentist Can Help
If you have yet to see a professional about your sleep apnea symptoms, do not wait to schedule an appointment. Their thorough evaluation can make it possible for you to receive the appropriate method of treatment (i.e., oral appliance therapy, CPAP therapy, weight loss, etc.).
However, if you are currently undergoing sleep apnea treatment and are still experiencing difficulties getting the rest you need, make sure to let your dentist know. It may be that you need to speak to your healthcare provider about changing your medications, starting a weight loss treatment plan, or finding cessation resources to help you kick your smoking or alcohol habit.
Living with sleep apnea doesn’t have to be an exhausting reality. Instead, by talking to a sleep dentist and taking the steps to get the help you need, you can begin to breathe better and wake up well-rested day after day.
About the Practice
At Star Sleep & Wellness in Frisco, our team of sleep experts and specialists want all patients to desire a healthier way of life. When breathing becomes a problem, and rested sleep is out of reach, we want to deliver treatment that makes going to bed an enjoyable part of the day. Offering various options, our team makes it our mission to improve lives by creating safe and effective ways to achieve quality sleep. Contact us to find out how we can help you get the rest you need.