Quality Sleep Is Important For Your Health
Do you often wake and feel unrested or have difficulty falling asleep each night? Quality sleep is important to help us function properly in our daily lives. During sleep each night, you are resetting your body and your mind. When you are not sleeping through the night, have difficulty falling asleep, or are not sleeping enough, you may start to see negative changes in your mood and your overall health. Some patients who have difficulty sleeping are suffering from a common sleep condition known as sleep apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
If you are unfamiliar, sleep apnea is a condition that causes the soft tissues in the back of the throat to relax during sleep, obstructing the airway and limiting proper oxygen flow. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, more than 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. Unfortunately, many who suffer remain undiagnosed and symptoms continue for years. Sleep apnea not only can affect your quality of sleep, but it can also lead to serious complications with your overall health.
Create a Sleep Routine
Although we can help you if you are suffering from sleep apnea, it is important to create a sleep routine for yourself. The body thrives on a schedule, and it can become confusing when sleep and wake times vary each day. So, when the snooze option on your alarm seems appealing, don’t give in to the temptation. Here are some other tips to help you get the quality sleep you need:
- Have a nightly routine, which may include a bath, warmed lotion, cozy pajamas, and hot tea.
- Avoid electronics, including TV, video games, and cell phones for approximately 30 minutes prior to bedtime.
- Try to get 30 minutes of exercise each day.
- Be mindful of caffeine and alcohol consumption.
- Avoid bright lights before bed. Use soft lighting to prepare your eyes and mind for sleep.
If you are located in Denton, MD or the surrounding area, suffering from poor sleep habits and concerned that it might be related to sleep apnea, please contact us to schedule an appointment. We are here to help you get the quality sleep you need and deserve.
