Sleep apnea is a common, too frequently undiagnosed health problem that presents a myriad number of problems. The key to living a healthy life in spite of being diagnosed with sleep apnea is learning everything you can about the best treatment options. Continue reading this article to discover several sleep apnea health care tips.

Getting a CPAP machine is probably the best option for your sleep apnea. These machines will keep your airways open and help you breathe. You should talk to your doctor about CPAP machines and figure out which model would be the most adapted. This machine should work if you use it properly.

You must be careful not to use sedating medications if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Anything that sedates you will slow down your breathing, especially when you go to sleep. When you are sedated by medication, your throat muscles will relax and collapse more quickly as you sleep.

Moderate your alcohol intake. Alcohol has a relaxing effect on all your muscles. People who are addicted to alcohol may learn that this is the cause of their apnea, and others who drink sporadically should know it affects them, too. Alcohol causes the throat and tongue muscles to relax, which can make it easier for them to block your airway. While you might still drink, limit yourself and avoid it at bedtime.

For the sleep apnea patient using CPAP treatment, the wide range of options in machines and masks can seem overwhelming. The key to selecting the best equipment for your needs is to test out the various models yourself. Your Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider should have a variety of masks and accessories available for you to try out. Don’t settle for the “standard” company mask. Insist on viewing several and being fitted properly. Comfort and good fit are key to successfully adjusting to CPAP treatment.

Remember to bring the CPAP machine with you if you should happen to require a stay at the hospital. Whether you have a planned hospitalization or you need to go to the emergency room, you should have your CPAP and mask available for use while you are there. The settings will be prepared and you won’t have to adjust the pressure. This will facilitate your CPAP therapy during your hospital stay.

Losing weight is an excellent way to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea. Getting rid of those extra pounds can help you with your sleep apnea. Loosing even a little weight can allow you to breathe more freely and get a good night’s sleep.

If you use a CPAP machine, make sure the mask fits well. Most people who quit using their CPAP machine usually say it is because the machine is uncomfortable. There are a number of different masks available, so you are not forced to use one that causes discomfort. Try out many different styles to find the right one.

Try to slim down. Sleep apnea is exacerbated and sometimes even caused by obesity. Try losing enough weight to shift your BMI from obese to just overweight or even healthy. People who have lost weight have improved their sleep apnea symptoms, and some have even cured their sleep apnea completely.

While you may not be obese or even very overweight, even a couple of extra pounds can cause sleep apnea. That means even if you have a little belly, you should work to get rid of it and see if that removes your sleeping problems. You will thank yourself for it afterwards.

In order to live a healthy life after being diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is important to educate yourself on the disease and study all of the latest, most effective treatment options. Sleep apnea is not a death sentence. By taking advantage of the tips and advice offered in this article you can dramatically improve your health.