When it comes to sleep disorders, sleep apnea is one of the most common. In fact, sleep apnea is prevalent in as many as 18 million people in the U.S. alone. This statistic denotes that approximately one in every 15 Americans, or 6.62% of the total American population, has a case of sleep apnea. One of the biggest mistakes made by those who suffer from sleep apnea is failing to seek high quality medical advice and hear about the various sleep apnea treatment methods. If you have sleep apnea, it’s critical to know which steps to take. Here are just a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind regarding sleep apnea treatment.
DO: Take your time in determining which mask is right for you
This is important for those who are first experimenting with various mask types. Don’t automatically assume that nasal pillows are the best option since they’re the least invasive — each type of mask has both benefits and drawbacks. Similarly, don’t assume that a full face mask won’t work because it’s too clunky. You never know if you may be missing out on an even better night’s sleep because you didn’t want to take a chance by trying a new mask type.
DON’T: Use your mask inconsistently
One of the main components of effective sleep apnea treatment is consistency. It’s incredibly important to wear your mask each and every night — even skipping just one night could have severe health implications. At the very least, it could set you back in your progress in addition to robbing you of your much-needed shut-eye. Do the best thing for yourself and your sleep apnea by doing your very best to wear your mask every time you sleep.
DO: Keep an eye out for modernized sleep apnea technology
Despite all the progress scientists have made on developing technology for sleep apnea sufferers, their work is far from complete. That’s why you should always ask for new recommendations from your sleep disorder treatment center to make sure you’re aware of any new technology to hit the market.
DON’T: Downplay the importance of seeking treatment for sleep disorders
No matter how you perceive it, sleep apnea and other sleep disorders are serious disorders that, as mentioned earlier, can have significant health implications if left untreated. If you or someone you know is suffering from teeth grinding, excessive snoring, jaw arthritis, or other symptoms associated with sleep disorders, it’s important to seek help at a sleep disorder center as soon as possible.
Ultimately, understanding these dos and don’ts can help you make the best decision for yourself and/or a loved one. Sleep is one of the most important activities for our overall wellbeing, and you, too, deserve to sleep soundly.
