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Summer Allergies and Snoring
wp:paragraph Dealing with allergies at any time of the year isn’t fun. Suffering from allergies in the summer months, when you’re supposed to be enjoying all that summer has to offer is even worse. Add snoring into the mix and you may be really struggling. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So why is it that some people’s allergies get worse in the summer? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Well, seeing as trees and grass tend to pollinate in the spring and summer, those of us sensitive to certain allergens are more at risk to this kind of exposure. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3548,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Furthermore, if you work in a building that has the A/C on full blast in the summer (as many places do), or if you like to keep your home very cool in the summer, you can be at double risk of allergen exposure. When it’s hot outside, the transition of the two extreme temperatures can be a huge trigger for allergies. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph For those of you who already snore, or if you suffer from (or are at risk for) sleep apnea. Your allergies can actually worsen your snoring. Fortunately, there are a few ways to make life easier for you allergy sufferers and (hopefully) cut down on snoring. /wp:paragraph wp:list Make sure you are not keeping your home too moist as this can trigger mould growth. Use a dehumidifier if you need to and be sure to change the air filter regularly. Keep your home clean to reduce dust. Keep your pets clean, and out of your bed if possible Keep yourself healthy! Your allergies will be not nearly as drastic if you eat healthy and exercise regularly. /wp:list wp:paragraph If you follow all these steps and are still not feeling better, don’t be afraid to seek professional help /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://www.metroeastallergist.com/articles/allergies-and-sleep-apnea /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://www.smileomaha.com/blog/summer-allergies-making-snoring-worse /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Our summer sale is on at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
Learn moreThe connection between Sleep and Testosterone
wp:paragraph Testosterone: also known as the “male hormone.” It is known for stimulating the production of male sexual characteristics and is essential for building muscle mass, strength and bone density. It is naturally produced in your body. Even women are said have a little bit of testosterone (although not nearly as much compared to our male counterparts). But with that said, what does it have to do with sleep? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As hard as it may sound to believe, recent studies have revealed higher levels of testosterone result in a poor quality of sleep. In a study completed by The International Society of Endocrinology and the Endocrine Society, the subjects (mostly middle-aged men) underwent a series of tests and evaluations to compare their testosterone levels with the quality of sleep. Interestingly enough, it was revealed that approximately 2/3 of the participants had moderate to severe sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3544,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Many studies done in the past have also revealed that the less amount of sleep you get, the lower your testosterone levels are. Sounds conflicting, right? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph However, what we have to remember is that today’s increase of prescription hormones may have a lot to do with these new findings. Eve Van Cauter, PhD, is the director of the University of Chicago Sleep, Metabolism and Health Center. She conducted the study of sleep and testosterone and said that it is very likely that there is relevance in a possible increase in testosterone prescriptions for middle aged men. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All in all, the connection between sleep and testosterone is a balancing act. Having too much or too little can result in a poor sleep quality. So think carefully and consult a doctor if you feel you have the need for prescription testosterone. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So gentlemen, you’re no less of a man if you stick to a good sleep routine of 8 hours per night and if you leave the prescription hormones alone. Let your body do what it does naturally and you’ll be fine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Our summer sale is on at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph wp:core-embed/wordpress {"url":"http://www.sleepdt.com/connection-sleep-high-testosterone/","type":"wp-embed","providerNameSlug":"sleep-diagnois-and-therapy","className":""} http://www.sleepdt.com/connection-sleep-high-testosterone/ /wp:core-embed/wordpress
Learn moreWhy a full moon may be the reason why you can’t sleep
wp:paragraph If you felt a little more tired than normal on July 13th, it’s probably because of the full moon from the night before. Seriously. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If that sounds crazy, researchers in Sweden have discovered a link between the lunar cycle and our sleep activity. Our brains are apparently more reactive whenever there is a full moon, which makes it harder for us to get to sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3541,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph In a similar study conducted a year ago in Switzerland, 47 healthy participants were observed as they slept in a window-less laboratory room on the night of a full moon. On average, it took them 5 minutes longer to fall asleep, and overall, they slept an average of 20 minutes less than they normally do. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Seeing as they were in a room without windows, it’s easy to ask how are these findings related to the moon? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The truth is that part is still up for speculation. While we tend to have more brain activity during a full moon (as mentioned above) they say more studies are needed before they can say for sure. One of the Swiss researchers, Dr. Michael Smith, has speculated that we may have an internal biological clock that follows the lunar cycle. But all of this is still up for speculation. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So next time there’s a full moon, it may be a good time to call it an early night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Our summer sale is on at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://time.com/2973469/sleep-less-full-moon/ /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://www.ctvnews.ca/sci-tech/struggling-to-sleep-blame-it-on-the-full-moon-1.1907537 /wp:paragraph
Learn moreGet active for a better night’s sleep
wp:paragraph Ugh, exercise. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Of course you’ve heard over and over how important it is for your overall health. But let’s be honest, it can be a challenge to fit in a workout within our busy, on-the-go lives, not to mention that the thought of getting active makes you want to fall asleep right now. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph No matter how many times you’ve heard over and over from your doctor, here it is again: failing to be active in your daily life can have negative consequences on your overall health. More specifically, this can lead to sleep disorders –like sleep apnea - and for most adults, can cause chronic insomnia. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Sleep problems affect millions of adults and about 50% of adults complain of chronic insomnia, according to a research study done at Northwestern University. Insomnia in never any fun to deal with, and the reality is that it will get worse as we get older. This is why it is important to get active now. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3534,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph The benefits of a great workout are endless. They include speeding up your metabolism and making you more alert and energised for the day. But you don’t been to become a gym rat in order to stay healthy. Here are some tips for staying active for a better sleep: /wp:paragraph wp:list Exercise earlier in the day. You’ll feel refreshed as you start your daily routine and you won’t be as wound up when you go to sleep If you have to leave the workout until later in the day, the Mayo Clinic suggests that you do not exercise within 3 hours before you go to bed in order to allow your body temperature to cool down for sleeping Keep it simple. “Exercise” doesn’t necessarily have to be a daily 90 minute sweat session at the gym (unless you’re into that of course). Simply taking the dog on a long walk as you rise can do wonders for your overall health. Get other people involved! Take your partner or a friend with you as you go for a walk or run, or organise a team sport with a bunch of colleagues. This makes exercise a lot easier (and more fun) when you have something to look forward to /wp:list wp:paragraph http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/news/20100917/exercise-helps-you-sleep /wp:paragraph
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Sleep Apnea and the Middle Aged Man- What you need to know:
wp:paragraph Statistically, sleep apnea affects one in 25 middle aged men. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you find yourself in this age and gender category, it does not mean that you are doomed to get sleep apnea. It just means that you need to be more aware of your health. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph It is also estimated that about 82% of men with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea are not diagnosed, simply because they do not know the signs and symptoms. There are many ways to be more aware of the symptoms of sleep apnea and also how to make you less of a risk for it. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph You are at greater risk for obstructive sleep apnea… /wp:paragraph wp:list If you are a smoker If you consistently have high blood pressure If you have other risk factors for heart failure or stroke If you are overweight If you snore at night If the size of your neck is large If you have a family history of obstructive sleep apnea /wp:list wp:paragraph Most people who have sleep apnea don’t know that they have it. It is usually a family member or partner who realises that their loved one is at risk for sleep apnea. This is why so many people with this condition go undiagnosed. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph In order to lessen the risk of sleep apnea, some lifestyle changes you may want to think about making include: /wp:paragraph wp:list Staying active and attempting to lose weight through a healthy diet and exercise program Cutting back on alcohol, smoking and other medicines that make you sleepy Sleeping on your side, instead of your back, in order to keep your airway open /wp:list wp:paragraph Most importantly, be vigilant. If you experience excessive drowsiness during the day or if you exhibit any other symptoms of sleep apnea, consult with your doctor. If you receive a sleep apnea diagnosis, don’t wait to take action. Find a CPAP and mask that fits well and work to integrate it into your daily life. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Dad’s snoring keeping you up? Give Dad a PapSmart Gift Card this Father’s Day Buy a Gift Card Now! /wp:paragraph
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5 Tips for Travelling with CPAP
wp:paragraph There’s nothing more relaxing in life than getting away for the weekend. Living with CPAP should not stop you from enjoying your holiday time. Travel can easily be accomplished and there are many ways to make the travel experience as stress-free as possible. Here are 5 tips for travelling with a CPAP machine: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Pack your CPAP very carefully and be sure that it will not get damaged in transit. Most CPAP units come with a travel case, which will be handy for carrying your CPAP mask, and accessories. Remember to empty the water from your humidifier before you pack. If you’re flying, be prepared to take your CPAP machine in your carry-on baggage. And yes you will have to take it through security, but no need to worry too much as security personnel have seen these machines many times before. It also wouldn’t hurt to check with your airline to see if they have any restrictions or policies related to portable medical devices. Do not place the CPAP machine in your checked bags. There is too much of a risk that it will get damaged and chances are your airline will probably not reimburse you for the cost. Besides, if your bag is lost in transit, you will lose your CPAP machine altogether. If you plan on using your CPAP for sleeping on an overnight flight (or on a train, bus or car ride) have a plan for battery life for the length of the flight, plus three extra hours to accommodate for any delays that may occur. Think about investing in a smaller CPAP unit that is specifically made for travel. Especially if you like to go away a lot, or if you frequently travel for work. It is worth the money in the end, not to mention the convenience. /wp:list wp:paragraph Learn More /wp:paragraph
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Finding the Right CPAP Mask Fit
wp:paragraph So you have just been diagnosed with sleep apnea and the next step to your treatment is finding a CPAP Mask to help you sleep better at night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Like many new things in life, incorporating CPAP into your life is not an easy thing to do and is going to be a bit of an adjustment. But what’s important to remember is that this is all just one more step in to getting a good night’s sleep! And that should be you main motivator for this next step. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Now, shopping for a CPAP Mask is something very complex (like buying new glasses, for example). There are many parts to a mask that are different from each other and have features that make itself unique to your lifestyle, including adjustable straps and the positioning of the mask part itself (just to name a few). There are many varieties of masks that come in different shapes and sizes. Finding a mask that fits properly and is comfortable is crucial to proper CPAP therapy. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are some things to keep in mind about your lifestyle when shopping for a CPAP mask: /wp:paragraph wp:list Do read or watch TV before bed? Do you wear glasses? Do you think you would feel claustrophobic in a full-face mask? Which side of your body do you sleep on? Do you have long thick hair? Can it be tied up easily at night? Do you move a lot when you sleep? Are you more of a mouth-breather or a nose breather? /wp:list wp:paragraph Also, taking proper care of your mask is important. Mask parts and the mask need to be replaced about every 3-6 months. Facial oils can break down the wear of the mask and the therapy will not work if there is not a proper seal. For this reason, regular cleaning of the mask and mask parts is also essential to successful CPAP therapy. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Most importantly, it is essential that you feel comfortable with the mask and ensure that it fits your lifestyle. Be prepared to work closely with your doctor and/or specialist and try on many masks until you find the one that’s right for you. If you are ordering online, be sure that there is a mask guarantee program in place. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Introducing ResMed's New Airfit Series. Take 15% off of the new P10, N10, or F10 CPAP Mask. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Promo Code: Airfit15 /wp:paragraph
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Can Snoring be dangerous for your health?
wp:paragraph It is commonly known how much of a nuisance snoring can be, but is it something that could be potentially dangerous to your overall health? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Snoring could be a sign of sleep apnea, where there are repeated pauses in breathing at night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A complete absence of breathing at night is referred to as an “apnea.” and a partial reduction is called a “hypopnea”. Individuals who have sleep apnea have frequent apneas and hypopneas throughout their sleep typically without knowing this is occurring although they may be told of snoring and might find their sleep non-refreshing. With sleep apnea, the brain and the rest of the body may not get enough oxygen which results in light broken sleep and over time may cause serious medical disorders including heart disease. . /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph While sleep apnea can occur at any age (even children), people over 40 and people who are overweight are the most common recipients. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph While loud snoring is the most common symptom of sleep apnea, some of the other symptoms of sleep apnea include waking up with a sore or dry throat, occasionally waking up with a choking or gasping sensation, sleepiness or lack of energy during the day, sleepiness while driving, morning headaches, restless sleep, forgetfulness, mood changes and a decreased interest in sex, recurrent awakenings or insomnia. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The two main types for sleep apnea are: /wp:paragraph wp:list Obstructive sleep apnea: where the throat muscles relax to the point where the airway closes or goes narrow, thus blocking air when you try to breathe in. When the brain senses the inability to breathe, people most often wake up when this happens in order to reopen the airway. This awakening is so brief that people often don’t remember it. Your partner may notice a choking, snorting or gasping sound when this happens. Central sleep apnea: when your brain doesn’t send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. In this case, people often wake up with shortness of breath and they have trouble falling and staying asleep. People with central sleep apnea often remember the awakening. It is often caused by heart failure or a stroke. /wp:list wp:paragraph The most common treatment of this disorder is the CPAP machine, which stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It works by blowing a steady stream of air into the airway. The flow of air is adjusted until it’s strong enough to keep the airway open while you sleep. This is the most common treatment for adults with moderate to severe sleep apnea /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph While not everyone who has sleep apnea snores, loud snoring that is followed by periods of silence is a cause for concern, especially if you wake up as a result from this. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Need a new CPAP or mask? Check out PapSmart.com – Canada’s Premier Online CPAP store." /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Learn More /wp:paragraph
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Women and Sleep Apnea
wp:paragraph There has been an age-old bias that only middle-aged, overweight men are diagnosed with sleep apnea, but this has changed over the past few years. Today, there are a lot of women who have had to deal with a sleep apnea diagnosis as well. It’s no secret that coming to terms with this type of diagnosis is not easy to deal with (much like any big change in life). Here are 5 myths about sleep apnea in women that research has proven to not be true. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 1. Women Don't Snore: actually, women make up a third of the percentage of all adults who snore. Snoring is seen in 30% of adults over the age of 30. And yes, that is mostly men, but that doesn’t exclude women from being susceptible to snoring too. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 2. Only overweight women are at risk for OSA: While research has established a strong link between sleep apnea and obesity, there are many other factors that contribute to OSA. One example has to do with the abnormal positioning of the facial skeleton (more specifically, the jaw) known as Retrognathia. People with this condition are more likely to develop sleep apnea, so weight is not always a factor in a sleep apnea diagnosis. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 3. Only older women get sleep apnea: Research studies estimate that sleep apnea may affect up to 8% of middle aged women, and after menopause, the prevalence of OSA in women is equal to that of men. This doesn’t, however, exclude younger women from getting sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can strike people at any age, even children! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 4. Risks are not as extreme for women with OSA than for men: While both genders are equally at risk for the condition, the symptoms for women are often a lot less noticeable, and therefore go undiagnosed much too often. This makes the condition a lot more serious (and even deadly) for women when it is diagnosed. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 5. CPAP masks are designed for men making it harder for women to adjust to CPAP: Up until recently, the options for sleep apnea masks were very limited, and most often catered to men. This has changed dramatically in the last few years. Companies such as Phillips Repironics and Resmed now manufacture CPAP masks that come in all shapes and sizes that fit women perfectly. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Mother’s Day Sale - – Every Mom deserves a good night’s sleep. Free Shipping on all products from now until Mothers Day! Promo Code: MOMSLEEP Learn More /wp:paragraph
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