During the winter months, the changing temperature and climate can exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms, but there are ways to breathe easier and sleep well. According to a study conducted by the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil, breathing problems associated with sleep apnea worsen during the winter time. Dr. Buck sees many patients who suffer from this condition, and he understands how getting a good night’s sleep can be a challenge. Staying comfortable at night and sleeping well can be difficult for people living with sleep apnea, but by incorporating a few tips into your nightly routine, you can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.

The Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul study found that during the colder months certain weather conditions such as high atmospheric pressure and humidity and high levels of carbon monoxide made sleep apnea symptoms worse. Additionally, when temperatures drop outside, we turn up our thermostats and maybe even light a cozy fire to stay warm. Those warmer temperatures courtesy of our heaters can dry out your mouth, throat, and nasal passages. Also, if that toasty fire is wood-burning, the smoke could cause irritation in the airways. Here are a few ways you can breathe well and sleep soundly during the winter if you’re living with sleep apnea:

• Add moisture to the air- If you don’t already own a humidifier, consider investing in one to help you get through this chilly time of year. A humidifier can help combat the drying effects of the warmer air in your home.

• Keep nasal passages and sinuses moist- Sometimes, a humidifier alone isn’t enough. Use a saline spray or rinse (like a Neti Pot) to keep your nasal passages from drying out.

• Eat Healthy and Stay Active– Because several of the major holidays are smack dab in the middle of the winter season, we tend to overindulge on high caloric foods, packing on a bit of extra weight in the process. Excess weight can worsen sleep apnea symptoms, so it’s best to stick to a healthy diet. And while the colder weather may seem like the perfect excuse to hunker down at home, staying active is still important.

• Stay hydrated– Dry air, airways and nasal passages are all problematic for sleep apnea sufferers. Staying hydrated can help.

While this time of year can aggravate sleep apnea symptoms, these tips may help you rest and breathe easier at night. Because sleep apnea is a serious condition, it’s important to seek treatment. If you’re living with sleep apnea, contact our office at 425-361-7499 to schedule an appointment to meet with Dr. Buck to discuss your treatment options.