Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 6 : Fall 2010 | Page 51
Sleep Apnea
by Professional Home Nursing
Sleep Apnea is a serious condition. When you are
sleeping your throat becomes blocked and your breathing
will stop for short periods of time. You have interrupted
sleep from this. These cycles repeat themselves throughout
the night, which is why you may wake up feeling tired.
A crooked (deviated) septum can make snoring
worse and lead to sleep apnea. A receding jaw may also
cause snoring or sleep apnea secondary to the tongue
sitting too far back and causing blockage of the airway.
People with sleep apnea are much more likely
to fall asleep during the day and sometimes even
while driving.
Sleep apnea could also cause other
health problems, such as high blood
pressure, heart attack, and stroke.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
-Gasp or snort in your sleep
-Wake up tired after a full night’s sleep
-Wake up with a headache
-Feel very sleepy during the day
-Fall asleep easily without meaning to
-Have problems with memory or concentration
-Be cranky or short-tempered
Tips to help decrease or stop snoring and prevent mild
sleep apnea
-Sleep on your side
-Lose weight
-Avoid alcohol 3-4 hours before bed
-Certain medications such as sedatives, sleeping
pills and antihistamines.
-Unblock your nose, possibly using nasal strips
-Mouth pieces
-CPAP (Continuous positive air pressure)
-Surgical procedures such as: nasal surgery, jaw
surgery and surgery to your soft palate
and uvula
Partners Sleeping with a Snorer
-Try to go to bed first
-Wear earplugs to bed
-Use a fan or other source of background noise
-Go to doctor’s appointments with partner to
explain their breathing and snoring
patterns
-Support your partner by exercising with them
FALL 2010 County Health 49