If you snore when you sleep, or you find yourself waking up with a gasp from an otherwise peaceful sleep, you may be dealing with sleep apnea. Unfortunately, sleep apnea isn't a condition that you should take lightly. Here are four steps you should take if you suspect that you could have sleep apnea.

Start With a Visit to Your Doctor

When it comes to sleep apnea, you can't afford to take chances. Now that you suspect that you have the condition, start with a trip to a sleep apnea doctor. They can identify the problem and start you on a treatment plan. Your doctor may recommend a sleep study, which allows them to get a clear picture of what happens while you're asleep. You may need to stay in the hospital overnight while they conduct the sleep study, but the time spent will ensure a better treatment plan.

Begin a Weight Loss Program

If you're overweight, it's time to get started on a weight loss program. Obesity can make your symptoms of sleep apnea that much worse. It's particularly important for you to lose weight if a majority of the excess weight is located in your upper body. This type of weight gain can narrow your airways and create an obstruction, which will increase your risk of sleep apnea episodes.

Change Your Sleep Position

If you tend to sleep on your back, you need to change positions. Sleeping on your back can increase your risk of sleep apnea episodes, especially if you don't use a pillow. Sleeping on your back puts your head and neck in a bent position, which cuts off your oxygen supply. Instead of sleeping on your back, switch to your side. If you're concerned that you'll revert to your back once you're asleep, place a pillow against the small of your back. That way, you can't roll to your back once you're asleep.

Install a Humidifier

If you have dry air in your home, which is common during the winter, you need to install a humidifier. Dry air can dry out the lining of your lungs and nasal passages, which can increase your risk of an apnea episode. To avoid that, you should always have a humidifier in your bedroom.

If you snore, or wake up throughout the night, it's time to talk to your doctor about sleep apnea. They can help you get the situation under control so you can sleep easier.

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