If you are suffering from sleep apnea,there might be something you are ingesting that may be the cause of your sleep problems. Sleep apnea is associated with smoking, drinking and drug use. There are certain products you should avoid if you do not want to worsen your sleep apnea symptoms. 

Prescription Medications

There are some medications you can't avoid even if they might contribute to your sleep apnea. For example, you may be prescribed high blood pressure medications or antidepressants. However, you should still contact your doctor because he or she might be able to adjust your prescription or offer an alternative that will not contribute to your sleep apnea. 

Other Types of Medications

The hormones found in oral contraceptives can lead to you suffering from the effects of sleep apnea. Other prescription medications, such as steroids, diet pills and ADD medication can lead to sleep apnea. Any non-prescription medication that contains caffeine will exacerbate the sleep apnea symptoms. Sudafed can worsen sleep apnea. Also, most illegal drugs exacerbate the condition. If you are addicted to any drugs that worsen your sleep apnea condition, make sure to get in contact with a substance abuse treatment facility that will help you overcome the habit.

Alcohol

When you consume alcohol, this can lead to a worsening of sleep apnea symptoms. Alcohol can also contribute to weight gain, which will cause you to carry more fat in the tissues around the neck and throat, which will narrow your airway. It is not yet known whether long-term alcohol consumption will lead to the development of sleep apnea by itself. Reducing the amount of alcohol you consume will help you feel better and also allow you to avoid hangovers. 

Tobacco 

Cigarette smoking will increase your odds of suffering from sleep apnea. Cigarette smoke can lead to lungs becoming inflamed. Also, nicotine can lead to changes in your sleep quality. Those who smoke report more daytime sleepiness. Therefore, if you are suffering from sleep apnea, you should quit smoking as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are many products your doctor can recommend that will help with this.

The Importance of Receiving Medical Treatment

While there are many lifestyle changes you can make that can reduce your sleep apnea symptoms, it's also important to receive medical apnea treatment. Sleep apnea will not only leave you feeling tired everyday, but can also lead to severe health problems. You may even suffer from health failure. 

 

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