With the spring season in full swing, many people are experiencing a noticeable uptick in their allergy symptoms, and that’s especially true for those who suffer from sleep apnea. From watering eyes to excessive sneezing to itchy throats, spring time can be uncomfortable for allergy suffers, but it can become even more problematic for people living with sleep apnea. Dr. Buck specializes in treating sleep apnea patients, and he notices a significant increase in patients seeking treatment during the springtime months.

According to Dr. Buck, sleep apnea is a structural problem where the airway collapses during deeper levels of sleep, compromising breathing and interrupting sleep. Springtime allergens can aggravate sleep apnea symptoms. When a patient suffers from congestion in the upper respiratory area, it limits the amount of breathing space, thereby impacting airflow and making breathing more labored and difficult. Here are a few tips to help you breathe a little easier during the spring season:

Continue taking your allergy medicine consistently
Be proactive about promoting an open airway by taking your allergy medicine daily. Anything you can do to limit congestion and stuffiness will ultimately help you breathe better at night.

Consider using a Neti Pot or Saline Nasal Spray before Bed
Flushing out your sinuses and nasal passages can help open your airway. It also helps thin out mucus, making it easier to breathe through your nose.

Seek Out Medical Treatment for your Sleep Apnea 
If you haven’t been formally diagnosed or treated for sleep apnea, or if your current treatment method isn’t working, schedule an appointment to find out what your options are. While popular treatment methods include CPAP and even surgery, there are other options.

Because Dr. Buck understands that sleep apnea is a tremendous problem, he knows that many current treatment protocols aren’t always effective. By using a combination of correct orthopedic development strategies and mild functional therapies, Dr. Buck has seen continued success in alleviating sleep apnea symptoms for his patients.

If you’re suffering from sleep apnea, don’t lose another night of sleep! Contact our office today at 425-361-7499 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Buck, and find out how we can help you breathe easier and sleep better.