Sleep apnea is a common disorder in which one’s breath repeatedly stops and starts. It can affect anyone although it is very common in men over the age of 40. Sleep apnea can be very serious and if left untreated it can lead to injuries and chronic disease. Sleep apnea is typically treated with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, but some people do not tolerate CPAP therapy and may prefer natural alternatives.
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, then you may want to consider natural alternatives to CPAP for sleep apnea management in Bend. There are several natural treatments for sleep apnea that can be effective for some people. These alternatives include lifestyle changes, oral appliances, and alternative therapy.
Lifestyle Changes
The most effective treatment of sleep apnea is often a change in lifestyle. Many studies have shown that people who have sleep apnea and are overweight are more likely to have more severe apnea. Losing weight can help to reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
Lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet can also help to reduce the severity of sleep apnea. Exercising regularly can strengthen the muscles in the throat and can help to prevent the airway from collapsing. Smoking or consuming alcohol before bedtime can disrupt the quality of sleep and can be harmful for people with sleep apnea.
Oral Appliances
Oral appliances are another natural alternative to CPAP for sleep apnea management in Bend. An oral appliance is a small device that is worn in the mouth at night. The device is designed to keep the throat open and to prevent the soft tissues from collapsing. Some studies have shown that oral appliances can help to reduce the severity of sleep apnea and can improve the quality of sleep.
There are several types of oral appliances that can be used to manage sleep apnea. Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are the most commonly prescribed type of oral appliance. A MAD is worn over the upper and lower teeth and it gently shifts the lower jaw forward to help keep the throat open. Tongue retaining devices (TRDs) are another type of oral appliance that is used to manage sleep apnea. A TRD is a small suction cup that holds the tongue in place at the front of the mouth to prevent the tongue from collapsing and blocking the airway.
Alternative Therapy
Many people with sleep apnea have found relief from alternative therapy. Alternative therapy includes acupuncture, acupressure, chiropractic care, and herbal teas and supplements. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that has been found to help relieve breathing difficulties. Acupressure involves applying pressure to certain areas of the body to help improve breathing. Chiropractic care can help to alleviate muscle tension in the neck and can help to improve the alignment of the spine. Herbal teas and supplements such as valerian root, melatonin, and chamomile can help to relax the muscles in the throat and can help to improve the quality of sleep.
Sleep Apnea Management in Bend
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea then you may want to consider natural alternatives to CPAP for sleep apnea management in Bend. Lifestyle changes, oral appliances, and alternative therapy can all be effective treatments for some individuals. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment for sleep apnea. Your healthcare provider can help to determine which treatment options are best for you.