Halloween is almost here! As you check out the creative costumes and spooky decorations, don’t lose sleep at night or put your health at risk. If you have sleep apnea, even a few days of skipping your sleep apnea treatment can affect your health and sleep quality. You don’t have to miss out on the festivities to protect your wellness. Here are 5 tips to enjoy Halloween with sleep apnea.
1. Comply with Your Treatment Plan
Whether you’re taking your child out trick-or-treating, handing out candy, or attending a party, it’s easy to crawl into bed after a long night without complying with your sleep apnea treatment. No matter if you use a CPAP or an oral appliance, don’t forget to use them before calling it a night. You’ll breathe better and sleep soundly to be well-rested and alert as you get ready for the holiday season.
2. Minimize Your Candy Consumption
Resisting your sweet tooth can be difficult, but your sleep specialist and physician will recommend limiting sugar. Even a few days of indulging in sugary treats can lead to tooth decay, but that’s not the only concern.
Sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes go hand in hand. While a few Starbursts won’t land you in the hospital, controlling your sugar cravings can be challenging, which can lead to a big problem down the road.
3. Skip Drinking Alcohol Before Going to Bed
If you enjoy celebrating Halloween with a couple of alcoholic beverages, avoid drinking them too close to bedtime. Although alcohol can help you drift off to sleep quickly, it can increase your risk of your soft tissues collapsing to block your airway. You can avoid breathing disruptions by skipping any alcohol while you celebrate.
4. Create the Right Sleep Environment
You can doze off quickly with the right sleep environment. Keep your room 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit and avoid distractions, like watching TV or browsing social media. Besides limiting screen time, keep your room dark and turn on a fan for some white noise.
5. Don’t Snack Too Late
Avoid late-night snacking, especially if you’re craving sugar. Eating before bed can cause your blood sugar to spike, which is bad news for diabetic patients. If your stomach is rumbling, drink a glass of water before heading to bed.
Halloween is scary enough without worrying about health risks. You can make the most of the holiday and have peace of mind knowing that you’re supporting your wellness.
About Dr. Sara Saba
Dr. Saba achieved her dental degree at the University of Maryland at College Park and has continued her education to provide the most up-to-date services, like mandibular advancement devices. She combines the latest technologies and solutions to treat sleep apnea. Request an appointment through her website or call (301) 460-3331.