Sleep apnea is a life-impacting condition that can affect your physical and emotional health, and while it’s not always preventable, there are certain habits that could aggravate your symptoms. Recent studies published in Sleep Medicine, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and other journals, have explored the connection between alcohol consumption and sleep apnea. Learn more about what these studies found and how you can minimize the impact your symptoms have on your life.
What Do the Studies Say About Alcohol Consumption & Sleep Apnea?
Over the past several years, multiple studies have looked at the medical history of hundreds of people with sleep apnea to establish connections between certain habits, one of which was alcohol consumption.
In 2018 Sleep Medicine published a study that found that alcohol consumption increased the risk of sleep apnea by 25 percent after analyzing data from several past studies published between 1985 and 2015. They also concluded that how often and when alcohol is consumed are important factors in the effects of obstructive sleep apnea.
Another study published in 2020 in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery reviewed data and findings from studies that specifically looked at the effect of alcohol consumption on the occurrence and severity of OSA (obstructive sleep apnea). What they concluded was that alcohol consumption is associated with higher rates of severe snoring, altered sleep patterns, and low oxygen saturation.
Other Habits That Can Impact Sleep Apnea
In addition to alcohol consumption, there are a variety of other habits that can contribute to worsening sleep apnea. Some of these include:
- Sleeping on your back
- Taking certain prescription or nonprescription medications
- Smoking tobacco products, including vaping
- Not using your CPAP regularly or properly
Seeking Treatment to Improve Your Quality of Life
The key to maintaining and improving your health if you have sleep apnea is to seek timely treatment. There are multiple ways you can do this, including one of the most popular options, CPAP therapy. However, if you know you won’t be able to fall asleep with a mask on your face, or your sleep apnea is so severe that you require an additional treatment method, there’s also oral appliance therapy. Both of these will help keep your airway open as you sleep, allowing ample oxygen flow and minimizing the number of episodes you have throughout the night.
When your treatment is paired with good habits, like being mindful of how often and frequently you’re consuming alcohol or smoking, or the side-effects of any potential medications you’re taking, you can help your health take a turn for the better.
About the Author
Dr. Sara Saba has years of experience treating sleep apnea as well as postgraduate education that has provided her with extensive expertise in her field. She is also an LVI fellow and a Vivos Integrated Provider. She offers several treatment options for her patients with sleep apnea, including mandibular advancement devices, oral appliances, and CPAP therapy. Whether you’re exhibiting symptoms or already have a diagnosis, Dr. Saba can help you address your poor quality of sleep, starting with a simple consultation. Visit Exceptional Dentistry Pain & Sleep Solutions’ website or call 301-871-6660 today.