Sleep Assessment
Living with untreated sleep apnea can be difficult; however, once you begin to receive proper care, you’ll enjoy a far better quality of life. But when special holidays and festivities come around, you may wonder if the days of having fun are behind you, especially if you want adequate rest. The good news is that they don’t have to be! Read on to discover three ways you can get the sleep you need without giving up your Halloween fun.
Limit How Much Alcohol You Consume
Whether you prefer wine, liquor, or beer, it’s important to remember that drinking too much (or too late) can have negative consequences.
Alcohol is known to cause the muscles in your mouth and throat to relax. This can lead to a collapse in your airway. If you are too inebriated, you may not remember to wear your oral appliance, resulting in numerous apnea episodes. It can also slow your breathing, causing it to become shallower, which is potentially dangerous when living with sleep apnea.
Instead, opt for water to keep yourself hydrated and ensure a more restful night’s sleep.
Plan Your Evening Ahead of Time
Depending on when the party starts, try to be there when it begins so that you can spend the most time with family and friends before calling it a night.
Staying on top of your sleep schedule is important. While you might want to stay up until midnight or later, making sure you’re in bed at a decent time so that you can get the maximum amount of rest is essential to avoid fatigue the following day.
If you need a reminder, set a timer on your phone so that you know when it’s time to leave. When you wake up the next day, everyone who stayed later will wish they had made the same decision as you since you’re likely to feel well-rested.
Have a Few Treats But Only in Moderation
Halloween is all about receiving sweet treats. Since chocolate, fruit gummies, and all other kinds of candies will be readily available, make sure that you don’t overindulge.
Instead, enjoy a few early in the evening but limit your consumption. Sleep apnea sufferers are also known to develop diabetes, which can be difficult to manage if you struggle with both.
Trading in the candy bar for a crisp apple or juicy orange is likely to satisfy your sweet tooth while also safeguarding your heart and overall well-being.
Don’t assume that Halloween festivities are out of the question. Simply think about your plans and make sure that you make restful sleep a priority this holiday season.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Michel completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. After opening his first dental office in 1981, he discovered a passion for sleep medicine and pursued advanced training and continuing education to provide specialty services for patients suffering from sleep apnea. At Sleep Solutions, he and his team are committed to providing individuals with safe and effective oral appliance therapy to ensure better rest is achieved throughout the night, giving people the opportunity to embrace a better quality of life. If you would like help to breathe easier and get the sleep you desperately need, visit our website or call (785) 273-0802.