Top 5 bedroom tips to improve sleep apnea
If you’re tired of having a bad night and can’t sleep because of sleep apnea, here are five bedroom essentials to help improve your sleep!
1. A blackout curtain
To help you get the best sleep possible, a blackout blind or curtain is essential. They prevent 100% of light from entering your room which has been proven in studies to promote better and longer sleep. You do not need to install new blinds to experience this darkness because portable, inexpensive curtains are available for purchase, so you can take your curtain with you wherever you go!
2. Get tested for Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when for one reason or another, the patient’s airways become blocked and they are unable to breath normally. An apnea machine, or CPAP mask, is a bedroom necessity to truly help combat your sleep apnea. If you’re worried about adjusting to sleeping with an apnea mask, don’t. Use the mask every night without fail and you will soon hardly notice the mask at all.
3. Remove all screens
It is important to remove all screens in your bedroom, such as a TV or desktop computer as not only will they omit disturbing light in the night, they may also tempt you to watch or play games before bed. Replace watching TV before bed with reading instead. Reading will relax your mind rather than stimulate it which will help you fall into a peaceful sleep.
4. A hot, soothing beverage
Drinking something like tea, preferably herbal like chamomile or green tea, before bed is a much healthier alternative to alcohol. Don’t delude yourself into thinking alcohol will relax you and help you sleep as alcohol can actually worsen the effects of sleep apnea. A mug of sweet tea is, therefore, a much more beneficial addition to your bedside table and night time routine.
5. A firm pillow
Having a comfortable bed is not only appealing, it is also essential. A firm pillow is particularly important when wearing a CPAP machine as it supports your neck while wearing the mask. Many people favour memory foam pillows which mould to the shape of the individual and often help create a comfortable night’s sleep.