Sleep Apnea And Physical Exercise
Everyone is telling us to exercise more. Now, even we are getting in on the act, specifically with regard to sleep apnea and the benefits of regular exercise. Believe us when we tell you there are benefits — exercise can reduce the severity of sleep apnea, especially in conjunction with treatment.
Two-Pronged Attack
Alongside the treatment program we set up for you, moderate exercise can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms. When they say two is better than one, this is what they mean! By combining the treatment we prescribe with exercise, you will be on the receiving end of multiple benefits.
Regular Exercise Leads to Better Quality Sleep
Healthcare professionals will give you a laundry list of why exercise is good for you, no matter what their specialty. We are here to tell you that exercise can also help with sleep apnea.
Exercise can impact sleep apnea in the following ways:
- Fewer lapses in breathing while sleeping
- More hours of sleep
- Positive impact on daytime sleepiness
- Improved quality of life
- Better cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and stamina
- Increased attention span and cognitive function
- Weight loss
Controlling Your Weight Helps with Sleep Apnea
In addition to relieving sleep apnea symptoms, an added benefit of exercise is better weight control. This will improve your overall health, and that is a great bonus!
Release Tension and Feel More Relaxed
Exercise reduces adrenaline and cortisol levels in the body. This leaves you feeling more relaxed, making it easier for you to get a good night’s sleep.
Recommended Exercises
The type of exercise that will best suit you depends on your level of overall health and fitness. If you suffer from joint or back pain, choose exercises that won’t make the pain worse or do more damage. Start out by doing what you can to the best of your ability and progress from there. Choose activities that you enjoy. If it’s fun, you will be motivated to do it more often. Consult your doctor before beginning an exercise regime.
- Walking/jogging
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Yoga
- Resistance training
Get on A Virtuous Cycle that Will Benefit Your Overall Health
Many people find that once they start exercising or doing a physical activity they enjoy, as soon as they begin to see results, it motivates them to keep going, which in turn leads to better results. It’s this type of virtuous cycle that will get you on the path to improving all aspects of your sleep and health.
If you are currently being treated for sleep apnea and want to integrate exercise into your routine, contact the Center for TMJ & Sleep Solutions NW location nearest you — Silverdale, Lynnwood, Federal Way, or Bellevue, WA. We would be happy to help you find the best solution for you.
