If you’re among the 22 million Americans living with sleep apnea, you know firsthand how difficult it can be to feel well-rested in the morning. If you’re still battling fatigue despite your sleep apnea treatment, there may be another culprit preventing you from getting the rest you need. Believe it or not, your cellphone might be causing you to toss and turn at night. Here are the facts you need to improve your sleep quality, so you can feel your best.
Sleep Quality and Electronic Devices
Electronic devices emit a type of blue light. It’s like the light you’re naturally exposed to from the sun, which is necessary for your body to produce the hormone melatonin that’s responsible for sleep. However, exposure to blue light while you’re trying to fall asleep signals your brain to wake up. Although this can be helpful during the day, it will have the opposite effect at night. For a person who already struggles to get a good night’s rest because of sleep apnea, the blue light can make it almost impossible to fall asleep.
Over time, daytime fatigue isn’t the only complication that can occur. Eventually, sleep deprivation can set in, which can increase your risk of auto and workplace accidents while also drastically decreasing your quality of life.
Tips to Sleep Soundly
Thankfully, you can take several steps to promote your sleep quality to wake up feeling your best, such as:
1. Turn Off Devices
One of the simplest ways to get better sleep is to turn off your electronic devices at least one hour before going to bed. You can also lower the lighting in your house to trick your brain into decreasing melatonin production to fall asleep quicker.
2. Enjoy Relaxing Activities
Instead of watching TV or spending time on your cellphone, find a relaxing activity before heading to bed, like reading a book or magazine. Many people enjoy building puzzles, writing, or even listening to music to help them relax before turning in for the night.
3. Create the Right Environment
Your environment plays a significant role in your sleep quality. It’s important to create a comfortable setting for you to doze off, like choosing a soft mattress and pillows. You can also consider blackout curtains and soothing sounds to make it easier to fall asleep.
4. Treat Your Sleep Apnea
Never go to bed without your CPAP or oral appliance. Not only does your quality of sleep depend on your treatment, but so does your general health. Your sleep dentist will find the ideal method to effectively manage your sleep apnea, so you can breathe better.
If you’re not feeling rested during the day, it may not be from a bad mattress. Don’t let your cellphone prevent you from feeling refreshed in the morning.
About Dr. Jenna Bagley
Dr. Bagley has over 20 years of experience in dentistry. After pursuing her dental degree at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, she continued her training in various specialties, like sleep apnea therapy. Contact our office today to learn more about your treatment options.