Can Illness Worsen Sleep Apnea Symptoms?

We don’t know about you, but we are so excited to see the arrival of spring. This means that summer is right around the corner! Even though we can be excited about the brighter days and the warmer weather, unfortunately, there is always the chance that you or a loved one will become ill. While we aren’t having the same issues as this time three years ago, people are still getting sick for a variety of reasons. This may leave people who suffer from sleep apnea wondering if their symptoms will return or worsen when they aren’t feeling the greatest.

Sickness Can Affect Sleep Apnea

It is possible for an illness to affect your sleep apnea and lead to an increase in symptoms. Being that sleep apnea occurs when there is a lack of oxygen flow, it can become problematic if you have any congestion or a bad cough. If it is difficult to get the oxygen you need regularly, it will be more difficult when you are sick. Certain medications, such as muscle relaxers, may affect your sleep apnea, so it is important to take note of any medications that become bothersome so you can avoid them in the future or use them with extreme caution.

How to Help a Cold or Runny Nose

Dealing with head and nose congestion can also increase sleep apnea symptoms. We recommend trying to relieve some congestion before you go to bed. You can try a saline rinse or use a heated humidifier to break down mucus. It will also be helpful to take over-the-counter cold or decongestant medication.

Clean Your Appliances

While it is always important to keep any machines or hardware we recommend for sleep apnea clean at all times, it is especially important to clean them thoroughly after you have been sick. We would hate for lingering bacteria to reinfect you, causing more problems.

If you have any questions about sleep apnea or your treatment plan, be sure to contact our office, which is located in SIlverdale, WA, and we will be happy to help you. Hope you and your family remain healthy this spring!