Halloween is a fun time of the year with plenty of spooky decorations and lots of sugary treats. If you’re not careful, your sweet tooth can lead to bad news the next time you see your dentist. However, if you have sleep apnea, Halloween can also affect your sleep quality negatively. According to recent studies, a 10% weight gain can make you 6 times more likely to develop moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea. You don’t have to miss out on the celebrations. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy Halloween while managing your sleep apnea.
Limit Your Sugar Consumption
If you’re a fan of sweets, it can be difficult to resist candy and cookies. Although sugar is okay in moderation, it’s common to overindulge during Halloween, which can lead to weight gain.
Increased weight gain can worsen sleep apnea symptoms. It is best to moderate your sugar consumption. If you can’t resist your sweet tooth, limit yourself to one or two pieces of candy. Instead, choose healthier snacks, like low-fat dairy products or fresh fruits and vegetables.
Stay Active
Researchers have found that moderate-to-vigorous exercise can improve sleep quality by reducing the onset of sleep apnea symptoms. Take a brisk 30-minute walk a few times a week to stay active and shed unwanted weight gain to promote better sleep quality.
Sleep on Your Side
Laying on your back can increase sleep apnea episodes. It is better to sleep on your side. If you have a difficult time staying in this position, place a pillow behind your back to help prevent you from rolling over.
Follow Your Bedtime Routine
After a long night of passing out candy or trick-or-treating, it’s easy to crawl into bed without following your regular routine. Breaking your routine for even one night can affect your sleep quality. Stick to your usual nightly routine to help you unwind and relax.
Comply with Your Sleep Apnea Treatment
Whether you use a CPAP or an oral appliance, do not forget about your sleep apnea treatment. Even one night of non-compliance can lead to complications, like daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and irritability.
You can enjoy Halloween without triggering sleep apnea symptoms by following a few tips. You will get the rest you need to wake up feeling your best.
About Dr. Keane Fedosky
Dr. Fedosky is a graduate of the Baylor College of Dentistry and has continued his training in TMJ disorders and sleep apnea. He is a member of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, and the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. Dr. Fedosky can help treat snoring and sleep apnea with custom-fit oral appliances. If you need treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, request an appointment through his website or call his office at (972) 544-0550.