Does Napping Worsen Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes the sufferer to temporarily stop breathing throughout the night. This can result in a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, including loud snoring, fatigue, and difficulty focusing throughout the day. When you are constantly sleepy, it can be tempting to lay down for a nap in the afternoon. Here’s why this isn’t always the best idea.

How Does Napping Affect Sleep Apnea?

Has a siesta been a part of your daily schedule? For some, this is the perfect time to refresh during the day. However, if you have sleep apnea, naps may not be the best idea. Here are a couple of reasons why.

• If you are planning on taking a short nap, you may think that you can get away with not using your oral appliance or CPAP. This means that you may be more likely to experience cessations in your breathing during this time. You may even wake up feeling more tired than you did when you first laid down.
• Napping can make it challenging for some individuals to fall asleep at night. If you aren’t used to wearing your oral appliance yet, it is best to set yourself up so that you fall asleep quickly at night.

Ultimately, it is best for those with sleep apnea to skip naps when possible. However, if you feel like one is truly necessary, try not to sleep for more than 20-30 minutes. This way, you will be unlikely to enter the deep phases of sleep, reducing interference with your nighttime sleep routine.

How Else Can You Improve Your Quality of Sleep?

If you have sleep apnea or think that you may have it, here are some steps that you should take to improve your quality of sleep.

• Don’t use electronics at least an hour before bed.
• Don’t drink carbonated beverages in the afternoon.
• Don’t drink alcoholic beverages before bed.
• Adjust your thermostat so the temperature is on the cool side.
• Make your bedroom as dark as possible for bedtime.
• Do your best to go to bed around the same time every night
• Consult with a sleep apnea doctor if you think you have sleep apnea or are having difficulty with your sleep apnea treatment. Another option may be available to help you get the rest you need.

Napping can be great in some circumstances, but it isn’t always an ideal option for those with sleep apnea. By skipping your afternoon nap, you may be able to get more quality sleep at night!

About the Practice

At GoTo Sleep Center for CPAP Alternatives, we have a team of skilled sleep apnea doctors serving patients in the Glendale area. If you think you may have sleep apnea or are struggling with your symptoms, we would be happy to help. To learn more about sleep apnea treatment or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (623) 600-4215.