Daily Activity Helps Improve OSA

By now, I’m sure you are well aware that physical activity has immediate and long-term health benefits. Especially if you are being treated for sleep apnea, regular exercise improves your sleep quality and reduces the risk of serious health problems associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and stroke. Read more to find out the benefits of exercise as they relate to OSA.

One of the main reasons daily activity helps improve OSA symptoms is because it helps control weight. With obesity as a major factor contributing to OSA, it’s no wonder that reducing weight can help ease the symptoms. You don’t have to jump right into a Crossfit class or start biking 20 miles a day. Start off slow and build up your endurance. The key is consistency for any exercise routine to be effective.

According to an article in the American Journal of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, studies show that aerobic exercises intended to increase your breathing and heart rate — walking, jogging, swimming, biking — can strengthen the muscles of the upper airway and reduce the collapse of the pharynx during sleep. That’s good news for sleep apnea sufferers.

It’s important to note that if you do begin an exercise program, you should check with your doctor first. Those with sleep apnea may struggle to breathe well during aerobic exercise or experience changes in heart rhythms. We don’t want you to avoid exercise because of these issues, though. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will not only benefit your sleep apnea symptoms, it will help you achieve a better quality of life.

If you have any questions about your sleep apnea treatments please feel free to contact our office. We are always happy to hear from you.

Dr. Sep & Team

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