How Does Napping Affect Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes cessations in breathing throughout the night during sleep. This can cause a wide range of symptoms, including loud snoring, difficulty focusing, mood changes, and chronic fatigue. When you are tired all of the time, it can be tempting to lay down for a nap in the afternoon. Here’s why this isn’t the best idea if you have sleep apnea.

How Can Napping Impact Sleep Apnea?

Do you like to take a nap at midday? For some people a siesta is the perfect way to renew themselves during the day. However, if you have sleep apnea, naps may not be ideal. Here are a couple of reasons why.

• If you are planning to take a short nap, you might 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 your snooze. You might even wake up feeling more tired than you did when you first laid down.
• Napping can make it difficult for some people to fall asleep at night. If you aren’t used to your sleep apnea treatment yet, it is best to set yourself up to be tired when bedtime rolls around so you fall asleep quickly.

Generally speaking, it is best to skip naps when you have sleep apnea. However, if you feel like one is truly necessary, try not to nap for more than 20-30 minutes. This way, you are less likely to enter the deep phases of sleep, reducing interference with your nighttime routine.

How Else Can You Improve Your Quality of Sleep?

If you have sleep apnea or think that you might, here are some additional steps to 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 during bedtime.
• Do your best to go to bed at 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 helpful in some situations, but it isn’t usually an ideal option for those with sleep apnea. By skipping your nap, you may be able to achieve deeper 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) 239-0007.