{"id":925,"date":"2023-12-27T17:20:08","date_gmt":"2023-12-27T17:20:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvcompletedentistry.com\/blog\/?p=925"},"modified":"2024-01-04T17:24:20","modified_gmt":"2024-01-04T17:24:20","slug":"risk-factors-for-worsening-sleep-apnea","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvcompletedentistry.com\/blog\/2023\/12\/risk-factors-for-worsening-sleep-apnea\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Risk Factors for Worsening Sleep Apnea Symptoms"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you have sleep apnea<\/a>, you likely understand just how much your symptoms can impact your day-to-day life. From chronic fatigue to difficulty focusing throughout the day, there\u2019s an entire spectrum of effects that your condition can have on you. Read on to learn about five factors that can lead to worsening sleep apnea symptoms so you can reclaim your life by minimizing the effects of your condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Taking Certain Medications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Did you know that certain medications can make your sleep apnea symptoms even worse than they already are? Valium or Xanax, painkillers (specifically opioids), sleep aids, and muscle relaxers can all cause your throat muscles to relax, obstructing your upper airway and leading to obstructive sleep apnea. If you are taking these medications and have noticed them impacting your ability to get quality rest, consulting with your doctor or sleep specialist is a great first step to controlling your symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sleeping on Your Back<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

An estimated 10 percent of adults sleep on their back, making it one of the top three most common sleep positions! However, sleeping on your back can also exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms. The extra weight and pressure on your airways can lead to more frequent apneas (or episodes) throughout the night, minimizing oxygen flow as you sleep. You can try sleeping on your side, or if you naturally roll onto your back throughout the night, you can use a pillow to keep your body positioned more to the side.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alcohol Consumption<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Alcohol acts as a muscle relaxant, which means that when you drink before bed, your throat muscles and tongue can cause further obstruction of your airway, leading to worse snoring as well. To keep this from happening, avoid drinking alcohol at least a few hours before bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are several existing medical conditions that have been associated with sleep apnea, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n