Aside from being closely associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, and type-2 diabetes, sleep apnea can significantly impact how you feel every day. It can make you more irritable, tired, and less capable of living a high quality of life.
The only way to determine whether or not you’re suffering from sleep apnea is to spend a night in a sleep observation clinic. But how would you know if it’s time to have it checked out?
On an individual level, it can be difficult to determine if you might have sleep apnea. Sufferers are often unaware of hundreds of potential “micro awakenings” through the night and the gasping and snoring that occurs during slumber.
Women can suffer from different symptoms than men. While men commonly display the symptoms mentioned above, women more often report symptoms like
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Sleep Disruptions
A sleep apnea diagnosis is generally treated with a continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, machine. The machines open up airways to promote regular breathing and uninterrupted sleep.
If you’re trying to figure out how to deal with the potential effects of sleep apnea as you wait for an appointment or become accustomed to a CPAP machine, here are some potential factors that may help improve energy levels during the day.
Drink Green Tea: Caffeine and L-theanine in green tea may help boost focus and alertness.
Include Anti-Inflammatory Foods in Your Diet: A diet featuring fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains can help moderate blood sugar and energy levels.
Try Sleeping with An Elevated Head: Doubling pillows so that your head stays elevated during sleep may encourage better breathing. A wedge-shaped pillow may help.
Side Sleeping May Be Useful: Sleeping on your side may prevent the likelihood of airways being blocked by the tongue.
These tips will not cure sleep apnea. Instead, they may offer some relief while you’re adjusting to a CPAP machine or awaiting an official diagnosis.