Sleep Apnea and the Holidays

Have you heard of sleep apnea? This sleep disorder causes a person to stop breathing when sleeping. Sometimes a person will stop breathing numerous times in their sleep. Breathing stops when there is an obstruction in the airway.

Living with obstructive sleep apnea

When there is a blockage in the airway, it is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This blockage can be caused by the tongue falling to the back of the throat. When this happens when the person is sleeping, it can be very serious. Left untreated, it can affect the heart and contribute to issues like heart attacks. You see, it's very important that sleep apnea is treated.

Some people might have additional diseases or illnesses which might affect their sleep apnea or vice versa. For example, I have COPD, asthma, too many allergies, and more. One can affect the other; breathing goes hand in hand with my sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea and the holidays

On a lighter note – sleep apnea and the holidays, yes! 😊 The excitement and busyness during the holidays can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time.

It's important that you try to maintain a normal schedule. The best way for me to do this is to make lists. Mind you, I lose lists. I tend to take them from room to room with me so that I can write things down as I think of them. Where did my list go? The little gremlins must take them and hide them.

My phone is an invaluable tool

Yes, we use our phones and save things on them – sometimes too many. I have found, though, that the phone is the very best place to keep my notes.

Make lists ahead of time

This can help you to be organized and less stressed. I like to keep lists for what I need to purchase (for who, or for what event), what I need for a meal at my house, and/or what I need to prepare to take to an event elsewhere. This can include a prepared dish, relishes, pies, or drinks. Any extra dishes or paper products should be included as well. This can be so freeing for the mind, my mind anyway.

My overnight packing list

If I am going for an overnight, I keep a list of everything I need.

I include my cellphone, charger, camera, extra batteries, CPAP (and case), face mask wipes, an extra face cushion (in case of a tear), and distilled water. I also pack my oxygen concentrator, nebulizer, extra breathing apparatus, extra tubing, and medications. Also, my cane and clothing, cosmetics, toothbrush, toothpaste, even dentures. Finally, nightwear and other necessities, like my glasses. Yes, I would forget my glasses!

Without my list, I would likely lose some sleep trying to remember things. You may have more things than I do or maybe less. For me, what matters is that neither you nor I forget something that we will need.

Try not to overindulge on holiday treats

Have you ever had too much to eat where it felt like your stomach was so full and distended? Where it was hard to breathe? Where you just felt sick? For some people, that happens too often.

I have done that on Thanksgiving. It's important NOT to do that. Try to eat at your normal time. Eating too late can have a negative effect on how you feel, and bloat can give you reflux and affect your sleep apnea.

More holidays tips

Try to do your wrapping when you get your packages. Then you won't be up so late at night trying to do all of these last-minute things.

Go to bed at your normal time. A good night's sleep is so important to you and your sleep apnea. It can help to prevent headaches and tiredness through the next day. Sometimes it takes me longer than one day to feel rested again.

Gifts for the person with sleep apnea

Do you want to buy your loved one something to help with his or her sleep? Here are a few ideas:

• CPAP cleaning machine
• CPAP mask cleaning wipes
• Pillow for sleeping when using the CPAP. I would recommend a gift certificate, which might be better so that they can pick the pillow that might be best for them and the way they sleep when wearing their CPAP mask.
• Gift certificate to a CPAP supply store. This is so they can purchase supplies, such as cushions, tubing, filters, new masks, or whatever else they need. You might want to find out where they get their supplies as other places might not carry them.
• Pajamas, a nightgown, robe, or slippers. How nice to feel so cozy and comfortable!
• Book or something to read before bed – if they like to read, of course.
• Tablet! There is so much they can do on a tablet. You could put an app on it with sounds for helping a person to sleep.
• Does your loved one like tea before bed? There are so many wonderful, assorted packets or individual types that could help them relax and have a restful night's sleep.

Can you think of other items for gifts or other suggestions to make the holidays better? If so, please share.