What To Do After Getting Diagnosed With Sleep Apnea

Written By Kara Masterson / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which your breathing periodically stops and starts. Getting a sleep apnea diagnosis can change your life, and it’s important that you take the proper steps to treat it. You need to do the following things after you get diagnosed with sleep apnea.

Start Treatment Immediately

You should follow whatever treatment regimen that your doctor recommends. Treatment typically includes CPAP machines, oral appliances, or surgery. However, surgery is typically only recommended in the case of severe sleep apnea. If you have any questions, then you should consult with your doctor. The most common treatment though is a CPAP machine.

Get Adjusted to Your CPAP Machine

Using a CPAP machine can be quite the adjustment to what you were used to before. Getting used to the face mask, especially if you’re wearing a full face mask that covers your nose and mouth, is usually the worst part of using a CPAP machine.

The silicone against your skin can feel weird or itchy at times, you have to get the placement just right so air doesn’t leak, and having air blowing on you all night can be rather different and strange. It can take several days for you to get used to using your machine, but eventually, you should adjust.

If you still have problems with your CPAP mask, such as it not fitting or never being able to form a seal after a few days, then you may need to get another one. It’s all about what will be most comfortable and helpful for you.

There are also accessories that you can use in order to make it easier for you to use your CPAP machine. For example, a humidifier can prevent your throat and nose from drying out.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle will complement whatever treatment your doctor decides is best for you. It can also help you get a better night's rest. Exercising and eating healthy will make you an overall healthier person. You can also lose weight by doing those things. Excess weight has a tendency to worsen sleep apnea.

It is also important for you to limit your alcohol intake. Alcohol can interfere with your sleep patterns. Additionally, if you are a smoker, then you should quit. Consult with a professional if you need help.

Follow Up With Your Doctor

You need to see your doctor on a regular basis in order to ensure that the treatment you use is right for you. The doctor may have to adjust the settings on your CPAP machine. They may also recommend another treatment.

A sleep apnea diagnosis will require that you make changes in your life. The first thing that you will need to do is to start following your treatment plan. You will also need to get adjusted to your CPAP machine. Additionally, it is important for you to follow up with your doctor and live a healthy lifestyle.

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Written By:

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys tennis and spending time with her family.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.