If you have fibromyalgia, you not only struggle with sleep due to body pain, but also have to deal with other symptoms that makes sleeping even more difficult. Some of these symptoms include frequent urination and chronic itching, as well as obstructive sleep apnea. Fibromyalgia and obstructive sleep apnea tend to go together more frequently that imagined.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a type of condition where you spontaneously stop breathing during your sleeping. After a few seconds, you start to breathe again, although not as deeply and evenly as you would. On the other hand, obstructive sleep apnea is different because in this state, the airway will actually close. This closing of the airway usually happen right after your throat or tongue relaxes.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea And Fibromyalgia
Those with fibromyalgia are more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea. There has been no study that explains the reason behind this yet. However, many theories surfaced. In one theory, medical professionals suggested that your brain may be a factor. Fibromyalgia patients tend to have a higher brain activity when sleeping, thereby leading to sleep disorders.
Others have also pointed out that those with fibromyalgia are usually prescribed with opioids which contribute to certain sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. This is because opioids tend to suppress one’s central nervous system.
How to Prevent Obstuctive Sleep Apnea in Fibromyalgia?
The most effective form of treatment for the obstructive sleep apnea is to avoid things that trigger it. Here are some ways to prevent obstructive sleep apnea:
- Obesity plays a major factor in developing obstructive sleep apnea. Therefore, losing a few pounds would be the best thing to do to manage the condition.
- You should avoid smoking or drinking alcohol before sleep because either activities can worsen sleep apnea.
- Practice good sleeping habits such as going to bed early.
- Sleeping on your side instead of on your back. This helps keep your airway open.
Although surgical or pharmaceutical treatment options for obstructive sleep apnea are unavailable, you can still get medical treatment by the means of a CPAP machine. This equipment connects to a mask which you wear over your nose before going to bed. The machine will force a stream of air down your throat to keep your airway clear.
