Did you know that sources estimate nearly 25 million American adults have sleep apnea? The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when your airways are repeatedly blocked or collapse during sleep, which pauses your breathing and interrupts the various stages of your natural sleep cycle.
Although your dentist can help treat symptoms to improve your oral and overall health, you might wonder whether it’s possible to travel safely if you suffer from this condition. Continue reading to learn 3 tips that can help you manage your sleep apnea when you’re away from home!
Tip #1: Make Adjustments Before You Leave
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are a common treatment for sleep apnea. This involves placing a mask over your nose and/or mouth at night, which delivers a steady stream of pressurized air that helps keep your passageways open. However, many dentists can also provide oral devices that shift your jaw to its ideal position, reducing nighttime obstructions.
These appliances will require periodic adjustments to account for your shifting bite alignment. If you know you’re leaving town for work or have an upcoming vacation, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your provider before you leave to ensure it fits properly while you’re gone.
Tip #2: Stick to Your Routine
It’s easier to stick with healthy habits, like eating wholesome foods and exercising regularly, when you’re at home in a familiar environment, which helps manage symptoms of your sleep apnea. Unfortunately, it’s easy to fall out of your routine when you’re traveling, whether it’s due to a time difference or because of the change in scenery.
If possible, try to maintain your regular dietary habits and sleep schedule. For example, avoiding overly greasy and sugary foods can prevent nighttime blockages. Plus, the daily practices that you rely on to help you fall and stay asleep in your own bedroom can be beneficial when you’re out of town.
Tip #3: Pack the Essentials
Nothing is as frustrating as carefully packing your suitcase only to realize you didn’t leave room for your sleep apnea treatment! Leave space in your bag for your oral healthcare essentials. Not only will you need a travel-sized dental hygiene kit that includes a toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste, but you’ll also need to include your oral appliance or CPAP machine.
Creating a packing list can help you remember any necessary accessories, like a special storage case, plugs, an adaptor, or cords. You should also bring any special soaking solutions used for cleaning to avoid residue buildup.
Making a conscientious effort to stick with your regular habits and routines and packing the right supplies can help keep your sleep apnea under control wherever your travels take you!
Meet the Author
Dr. Anita Madhav is passionate about helping patients in Plano improve their daily lives by enhancing their oral health. She earned her dental degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and then completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program to further her skills and abilities. Today, she provides a comprehensive menu of top-quality services using state-of-the-art technology, including sleep apnea treatment. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 618-1111.
