sleep apnea

  A sleep study test , more formally known as a polysomnogram, is performed to diagnose sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia , and restless leg syndrome (RLS). It involves spending the night at a sleep laboratory that's part of a hospital or an outpatient sleep clinic. As you sleep, electrodes attached to your head and body monitor your brain waves, breathing, and movement. A technician watches as you sleep via a discreet camera. Since it can be strange to sleep somewhere other than your bed and to know that you're being monitored and observed, you may feel some anxiety about the experience. The more you understand why the test is important and what to expect, the more comfortable you'll feel.  Purpose of Test Your doctor may want you to have a sleep study if you have trouble falling asleep, wake up frequently, snore, or have other symptoms of a sleep disorder.1 A polysomnogram might also be advisable based on a screening test for narcolepsy (excessive daytime sl...

  Bring all of your favorite foods, right? Whether you like sweet or savory, it seems like the holidays provide the best dinners and desserts. However, if you have sleep apnea, you should watch what you eat because it could help or hurt your condition. Keep reading to discover some of the best foods for sleep apnea as well as what you should avoid for a good night of counting sheep. What is sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder that can lead to serious health problems, such as high blood pressure and heart trouble, if untreated. Untreated sleep apnea causes breathing to stop repeatedly during sleep, causing loud snoring and daytime tiredness, even with a full night's sleep.    Foods That Help Foods Rich in Melatonin Many fruits and vegetables contain melatonin, which is a natural sleep enhancer. Asparagus, corn, cherries, grapes, broccoli, and cucumbers all contain this sleepy hormone. And, many recommend tart cherry juice as the best natural source of melatonin...

  In today’s fast-paced world, a good night’s sleep has become something of an indulgence. It’s fallen down our list of priorities behind work, chores, social time, and entertainment. However, sleep shouldn’t be a luxury. It’s as important to your physical and mental health as food and water. The body’s need for a healthy sleep is a relatively new research field. Scientists are looking into what happens to the body during sleep and why the process itself is so essential. We do know that sleep is necessary to: ·         maintain critical body functions ·         restore energy ·         Repair muscle tissue   ·         allow the brain to process new information We also know what happens when the body doesn’t get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can cause a range of mental and physical problems, including impairing your ability to: ·         think clearly ·   ...