Lifestyle Modifications
For some patients with lower levels of sleep apnea, relatively simple treatment options exist that involve minor changes to your everyday lifestyle. These include:
- Weight
- For some patients, carrying excess weight is a primary cause of sleep apnea; in most adults, the condition is most frequently caused by being overweight or obese, as this promotes soft tissue development in the mouth and throat area that prevents airflow during sleep. Weight loss can cause the condition to diminish partially or completely, making regular exercise and appropriate diet important treatment steps.
- Nasal Sprays
- Nasal congestion that contributes to sleep apnea can be addressed through a saline-based nasal spray that clears your nasal cavities during sleep. Sprays and other similar solutions, such as decongestants, are generally short-term solutions.
