Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where an individual stops breathing for short periods during sleep. Experts suggest following these five steps to deal with the condition.
OSA is more likely to occur in people who are overweight. The excess fat on the neck, blocks the airway which affects the person's breathing. Reducing weight can reduce the risk of sleep apnea.
Dietary changes such as cutting down on processed foods and high-calorie or high sugar foods reduce the risk of heart diseases. Maintaining a healthy diet is important to lower the risk of sleep apnea.
Drinking alcohol before bedtime can cause sleep apnea as it relaxes the upper throat muscles, causing them to collapse backward into the airway. Smoking also has similar effects.
Toning the muscles of your airways can help prevent sleep apnea. A few experts suggest doing oropharyngeal (mouth and throat) exercises for people with mild-to-moderate sleep apnea.
It is important to go to bed and wake up at a regular time every day. Following regular time includes the weekends as well. Try avoiding mid-day naps as they may interfere with your night time sleep.