Whether you’re an avid coffee drinker, cola drinker, tea drinker, or otherwise, if you’re someone who gets your daily fix (or two or three) of caffeine, then you may think you know it quite well. However, when it comes to caffeine and sleep disorders, you may not have all of the information you’re assuming that you do. Let’s go over a few things you may be completely overlooking that just might be contributing to sleep apnea.
#1: It’s In More Than You Think
You may think that as long as you give up your coffee, cola, or tea that you will be avoiding caffeine altogether, which will thereby help you with your sleep apnea. However, it’s essential to remember that caffeine is often present without you even recognizing it! Consider the following sneaky moments when caffeine may be around (and remember to read ingredients when in doubt):
- Sodas that aren’t cola but that happen to have caffeine
- Decaffeinated coffee (it often still contains caffeine)
- Many types of chocolate
- Certain energy drinks
#2: Even Morning Caffeine Can Interrupt Sleep
If you’re very sensitive to caffeine, it might affect your sleep and make sleep apnea worse no matter what. For instance, high sensitivity means that even if you’re indulging in caffeine in the morning, it can still influence your sleep. Think this may be you? Cut it out completely to see if it helps.
#3: It’s Not The Only Culprit In Sleep Disorders
It’s true that giving up caffeine or limiting it may help you address your sleep apnea. However, remember that if this is your sleep problem, there are many other lifestyle concerns that may come into play and you will still require treatment from our practice!
Protect Your Sleep With Our Advice And Treatment
Take time to come in for a visit with us to learn all about the different steps you may take to improve your sleep. James Stewart, DDS, and our team serve patients from Livonia, MI, as well as Farmington Hills, Farmington, Plymouth, Northville, Novi, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, Garden City, Westland, Redford, and the surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.
