THESE are the things that can worsen your sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted. Breathing during the sleep stops and starts often. Such people stop breathing while they are asleep. While sleeping, the throat muscles relax and allow the airway to become plugged by the tongue. This leads to a stop in the flow of the breath. This means that the brain does not get enough oxygen at that point of time.

When left untreated, this can result in a stroke or a heart disease or a memory loss. People who are more at risk of sleep apnea include those over the age of 40, those who have a sinus issue or a deviated septum and those who have a family history of this disorder. There are more such things that can put people at risk of developing this disorder or can worsen their condition.

Weight gain

When one is overweight, it is easier for the airway to collapse resulting in an obstructed breathing. People who are on the heavy side also tend to have thicker necks that can also contribute to the worsening of sleep apnea.

Medication

Medicines that have muscle-relaxant properties can further worsen sleep apnea. They can induce increased snoring and often increase the disorder. Even painkillers, particularly opioids, cause respiratory suppression, thereby increasing the breathing difficulties.

The position in which you sleep 

When one sleeps on the back, it can make sleep apnea worse. Sleeping on the back results in the weight obstructing the airway and makes your tongue relax even more thereby stopping the flow. One should sleep on their side to avoid any discomfort and treat sleep apnea.

Alcohol

Having alcohol makes you feel relaxed and drowsy. This results in a further relaxation of the throat muscles. Thus, alcohol makes the airway more prone to obstruction and worsens sleep apnea.

Anatomy

If one has enlarged tonsils, a deviated septum or a smaller-than-normal airway, they can be more at risk of developing this disorder. Even kids having enlarged tonsils or adenoids can suffer from sleep apnea.

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