Does Winter Make Sleep Apnea Worse?

Sleep apnea is a year-round problem for people who suffer from it. But have you found that it seems to be worse during certain times? Indeed, many people have noted that their symptoms seem to be more severe during winter. Why does winter make sleep apnea worse, and what can you do to get more restful sleep? This blog post shares helpful information.

Why Sleep Apnea Worsens During Wintertime

Here are some reasons why your symptoms might worsen during the winter months:

• Dry indoor air from heating systems often irritates the airway and increases congestion.
• Seasonal colds and respiratory infections are more common, which can block your nasal passages and worsen breathing difficulties.
• Allergens such as dust and mold tend to accumulate indoors during winter, potentially triggering inflammation and airway obstruction.
• Cold air outside may constrict your airways, especially if you spend time outdoors before bed.
• Changes in daily routines and reduced physical activity during winter can impact your overall sleep quality and lead to weight gain, which may aggravate sleep apnea symptoms.
• Stress from seasonal activities, such as festive gatherings with family, may negatively affect the quality of your sleep.

How to Get Better Sleep During Winter

If you experience more severe sleep apnea symptoms in winter, you can take practical steps to improve your rest. Here are some suggestions that might help:

• Use a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to the air and reduce throat dryness.
• Keep your sleeping environment clean by regularly dusting, vacuuming, and washing bedding to minimize allergens. If possible, be thorough by cleaning beneath furniture and in other nooks and crannies.
• Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to help reduce your risk of catching colds or respiratory infections.
• Stay physically active during the day, even if you remain indoors, to support healthy sleep patterns and manage your weight.
• If the weather allows, spend some time outside in the daylight each day. This can help to regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
• Elevate your head with pillows if you experience nasal congestion, which may help you breathe more comfortably at night.
• Regularly make time to do things you enjoy, so you can keep stress levels under control.

And, perhaps most important of all, you should not stop using your sleep apnea treatment. For example, you should continue to use your oral appliance every night, and take it with you if you spend any time traveling. It can help to reduce the impact of some factors that may interfere with your sleep quality.

Winter can be a challenging season, especially if you have sleep apnea! Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to get better rest throughout this time of year.

Meet the Practice

Drs. Kenneth Mogell and Yitta Garden are both certified by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Together, they use their expertise to provide custom oral appliance therapy for individuals throughout Florida who have obstructive sleep apnea. If you have been struggling to get enough rest, our team can guide you on your next steps. Contact any of our conveniently located offices, or call our Boca Raton location at 561-353-5252.