You may not have heard of sleep apnea before, but it is a condition that affects around 5% to 10% of the world’s population. The condition causes sufferers to stop breathing while they are sleeping, which is less frightening than it sounds. Thankfully, our bodies are aware enough to wake us up when this occurs, allowing those inflicted to continue breathing.
Apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, which results in a blocked airway. This can happen hundreds of times throughout the night, causing sufferers to wake up feeling restless and regularly tired. Fortunately managing sleep apnea is possible with the help of Wenatex and our range of products designed to give you high-quality sleep.
If you are looking for ways to enjoy the best sleep possible, browse our collection of sleep assisting products or send an email to enquiries@wenatex.com.au or give us a call on 1300 858 139 to learn more about our cutting-edge sleep system.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
There are several factors that contribute to someone suffering from apnea, with the most common being age. The older we get, the more often our throat muscles relax during sleep, and this most commonly occurs in those aged 60 and above. Being overweight can also cause apnea, as the fat on the inside of the neck surrounds the throat and makes it narrower.
Illness and genetics play a part in suffering from apnea, as reduced thyroid production is directly linked to causing apnea. The bone shape of your face or the size of your muscles are also a factor, while having large tonsils and adenoids can also cause the condition, especially in children. If you go to bed with a blocked nose, then you are also more likely to experience apnea.
What we consume also plays a role in whether we suffer from apnea, as certain medications such as sleeping tablets and sedatives can bring on the affliction. Alcohol is a leading cause in making throat muscles relax, making apnea common when going to bed while under its influence. For some, managing sleep apnea is as easy as avoiding alcohol before sleeping.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
- Poor quality sleep
- Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Loud and excessive snoring
- Episodes of stopped breathing that have been observed by others.
- Waking up during the night while gasping or choking
- Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Headaches upon waking
- Trouble focusing throughout the day.
- Mood changes
- Feelings of depression and anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Decreased sex drive or sexual dysfunction.
- Unusual breathing patterns
- Insomnia
- Excessive sweating during sleep
- Frequent trips to the toilet throughout the night
How to Treat Sleep Apnea
If you are experiencing the above symptoms and believe that apnea is the cause, there are several ways to treat the condition and improve the quality of your sleep. First, you should visit a healthcare professional to learn the severity of your condition and the best ways to treat it. There are treatments available to help alleviate apnea and have you sleeping normally once again. At Wenatex, we now offer at home sleep studies as well as a range of CPAP machines and accessories. If your doctor or health professional has suggested that you undergo a sleep study to assess whether you may have sleep apnea, get in touch and we can work with them to help you achieve healthy sleep.
Many people don’t realise the impact using poor quality bedding is having on their sleep, which is why we provide products that have been scientifically researched and crafted to provide the best sleep possible. Our ortho mattress provides orthopaedic support with five zones while relieving pressure on your body. Pair the mattress with our range of accessories to experience the level of sleep you deserve. We also hold sleep workshops throughout the year where we share advice and techniques for improving your life through the wonders of sleep.
Need Help Managing Sleep Apnea?
Whether you are struggling with apnea or are simply searching for ways to improve the quality of your sleep cycles, we have the products and the knowledge to help you. Our range of mattresses and sleep related products have been carefully crafted alongside sleep research experts to ensure we only provide premium bedding. Browse our range or give us a call on 1300 858 139 or send an email to enquiries@wenatex.com.au to learn more or to book your place at a sleep seminar.