Lifestyle Changes for Sleep Apnoea
Snoring and sleep apnoea are linked to certain lifestyles. Sometimes changes to your daily life alone can seriously improve your sleep — this is known as conservative management.
Losing weight
Snoring and sleep apnoea are linked to being overweight: as the neck muscles relax, extra weight presses down on the throat and closes the airway. Losing some of that weight can help prevent this.
Alcohol and cigarettes
Cutting down on alcohol and giving up smoking can have a dramatic effect on your overall health, as well as improving your sleep.
Sleeping position
Sleeping on your side can help prevent snoring, whereas lying on your back increases the pressure on your airway. Thicker or extra pillows to raise your head can also help.
Allergies
Although not completely proven, it makes sense to clear your bedroom of anything you might react to. Some allergic reactions close or partly close your airway, which can make snoring worse.
Support to make changes
Changing your lifestyle is preferable to surgery or using a machine — but it is easier said than done. At the Sleeping Disorders Centre we offer support, guidance and a strategy to help you make lasting changes.