Most people take a good night’s sleep for granted. Sleep apnea sufferers who haven’t received treatment know just how much of an impact sleeplessness can have on every aspect of their day to day lives. Once these patients start to sleep well, there are numerous improvements in their health and wellness. However, the adverse effects of sleeplessness are cumulative as are the benefits of a good night’s sleep. That’s why it’s so important that patients who suffer from sleep apnea continue getting adequate quantity and quality sleep each night. In this post, we’ll talk about some of the ways patients can ensure they are consistently sleeping well and waking feeling refreshed each morning.
Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep
To ensure you get a good night’s sleep when suffering with sleep apnea, keep the following tips in mind:
- Always use your oral appliance, CPAP system, or combined therapy
- Try to go to sleep and wake up at about the same time each day
- Turn off lights, TV sets, radios, phones, and other potential distractions
- Avoid stressful situations or exercise immediately before going to sleep
- Don’t eat for at least an hour before bed time
- Avoid drinking water or other beverages immediately before going to sleep as this increases chances for nighttime waking
Be Consistent with Treatment
Whether you’re using oral appliances, CPAP therapy, or combined treatment, it’s essentially that you be consistent. As mentioned, the effects (both positive and negative) of sleep are cumulative. Even one night without adequate sleep can lead to patients struggling with many of the same symptoms that lead to their sleep apnea diagnosis, including snoring, severe exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, and increased risk for accidents.
Contact Sleep Doctor Right Away if You Notice Changes
If you do notice difficulty falling or staying asleep or waking feeling tired, contact your sleep dentist or physician immediately. These are all signs that you may be experiencing issues with your sleep apnea therapy. They may also be indicative of additional sleep disorders or healthy concerns that need to be addressed.
Meet Dr. Marks
Skilled State College sleep dentist, Donald M. Marks, DMD, has been offering expert sleep apnea therapy for years. He has completed numerous continuing education courses and hands on training that make him the trusted resource for dental sleep medicine in State College and surrounding areas. If you’re struggling to get to sleep or stay asleep or you want to learn more about our sleep dentistry treatments, please contact us right away to schedule an appointment with Dr. Marks and his team at State College Dental Sleep Medicine.