Overcoming the Harms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Breathing disorders may strike us at night. And according to WebMD, overweight men who are in their late 40s are more vulnerable to experience obstructed breathing during their sleep. The overall condition of a person’s health affects the quality of how our body inhales oxygen.
If the condition persists, our body can suffer from oxygen deficiency, which leads to heart diseases, strokes, and high blood pressure. Also, oxygen is vital for cellular regeneration. And during our sleep, our body is supposed to repair and regenerate all the biological damages we have. Prolonged oxygen deficiency can damage our brain and increases the chances for us to suffer from dementia.
If you have been suffering from OSA, or you know someone who has the same condition, below are the three steps to improve the health condition.
Exercise and Eat Healthy Foods
Aerobic exercises are known to reduce the severity of sleep apnea. Running, swimming, jumping rope, or kayaking require all of our muscles to work together and proper breathing maintenance. Pick one that gets most of your interest. But remember, do not force yourself in the first days. Otherwise, you can injure your muscles or even a heart attack.
Second, you should start eating healthy foods. Obesity enlarges a person’s neck. And the fat deposit can lead to breathing obstruction. Therefore, if your Body Mass Index shows that you are overweight, change your meals into following a weight loss program.
Using the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) Masker
CPAP helps people with sleep apnea to sleep comfortably. The machine blows mild air pressure into the respiratory system through the nose and mouth. It prevents any air blockage during sleep and allows the body to absorb an adequate amount of oxygen.
There three types of the mask. The first one is the nasal pillow mask. It has minimum contact with our face when used because the machine distributes the air to our nose directly through the pipe. The second type is the triangle mask. It covers the user’s mouth and nose to provide a natural airflow. The third type is the full face mask. It is best used for people who have difficulties in breathing through their nose.
When you opt to utilize a CPAP device, you need to maintain the mask’s hygiene. You should use a cpap mask cleaner to eliminate bacteria and virus. We have to realize that the air coming out of our lungs contains harmful waste materials and organisms. If they are allowed to reside in the breather for a long time, they may multiply and infect us in the future.
Seeing a Sleep Doctor
Sleep disorders are a severe problem in today’s society. And medical practitioners are developing medical science and technology specialized in curing those diseases. One example of the medical institution that deals with that issue is the American Board of Sleep Medicine. They fund studies related to sleep disorders, and they certify sleep specialists.
Once you think that your sleep apnea has reduced your life’s quality, it is a sign that you need to visit a specialist. Schedule a visit, and listen to the doctor’s explanation of your condition. Follow all of the suggestions, and consult your development to the doctor.
