What should be noted in daily life for obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome?

Patients with sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome should pay attention to adjusting their lifestyle habits, controlling body weight, and avoiding the use of sleeping pills. The details are as follows:

1. Adjust lifestyle habits

In daily life, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, especially before bedtime. Drinking alcohol before sleep is not recommended, as excessive alcohol consumption can reduce respiratory muscle excitability and cause muscle relaxation, leading to snoring. Additionally, avoid chronic sleep deprivation. Long-term lack of sleep may result in sleep rebound and increased time spent in deep sleep stages, which could worsen episodes of apnea.

2. Control body weight

If a patient gains weight or becomes significantly overweight, it may lead to narrowing of the upper airway and reduced muscle tone and excitability in the upper airway muscles, resulting in nocturnal sleep apnea. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and preventing rapid weight gain is essential.

3. Avoid using sleeping pills

Sedative medications can decrease respiratory muscle excitability during deep sleep, making the muscles more prone to relaxation and increasing the likelihood of snoring. In contrast, regular physical activity can help reduce snoring during sleep.

Therefore, patients who have not received specific medical treatment should maintain these healthy habits to prevent worsening symptoms and reduce the risk of sudden death.