Other Options for Addressing a Sleep Disorder

According to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, over 18 million people in the United States suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Common sleep disorders, such as chronic snoring and sleep apnea, can prevent people from obtaining the rest they need to function properly at work or school. We’ve discussed other treatment options for sleep issues, such as sleep appliances or even a CPAP machine. However, in some cases simple lifestyle changes can be enough to reduce the severity of a sleep disorder.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

How do you know if you suffer from a sleep disorder? Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

  • Snoring
  • Daytime drowsiness
  • Inability to focus during the day
  • Depression
  • Waking up at night choking or gasping for air

If any of these symptoms sound familiar to you, then schedule a consultation with Dr. James Stewart, today, for a sleep assessment.

What Causes a Sleep Disorder?

Sleep apnea typically occurs when soft tissue in the throat obstructs airflow, causing the patient to snore or stop breathing entirely. As a result, the brain becomes oxygen-deprived and signals the person to wake up and start breathing. This process occurs multiple times a night, preventing the patient from getting proper rest. Risk factors for sleep apnea include:

  • Gender (men are particularly susceptible)
  • Age (especially over 60)
  • Tobacco use
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Obesity
  • Family history

Lifestyle Changes

There are a few lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce sleep apnea symptoms, including:

  • Weight loss
  • Quit smoking and/or other tobacco use
  • Stop drinking alcohol and/or taking over-the-counter sleep medications
  • Sleep on your side or stomach instead of your back
  • Keep your bedroom free from distractions, such as TV or computer
  • Keep your bedroom dark and cool

Schedule a Sleep Consultation with Dr. Stewart in Livonia, MI

If you think you are dealing with a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea or snoring, contact Dental Sleep Medicine of Michigan in Livonia at 734-425-4400 as soon as possible. We are excited to meet you and provide you with the relief that you’ve been searching for. Dr. James Stewart and our compassionate team are committed to forming trusting relationships with our patients, so we can work together to achieve sound treatment and a future full of restful nights. Located in Livonia on Middlebelt Road, we happily serve patients from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Farmington, Plymouth, Northville, Novi, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, Garden City, Westland, Redford, and surrounding communities.