Are you worried that you have sleep apnea? Maybe your partner complains about your loud snoring throughout the night, or you wake up feeling more tired, but it’s important you get it treated right away. You will need to get a diagnosis first, and one way you can help facilitate this is by keeping a sleep diary. If you haven’t heard of it before, here’s more about this habit tracker and what a sleep study in Daytona Beach can do for you.
What is a Sleep Diary?
In short, this is simply a daily record of various sleep-related information. You can write down a wide range of things in there, from your bedtime, when you woke up, how long it took to doze off, naps, interruptions, and the quality of sleep, just to name a few.
Many people also like to toss in things that they think might’ve impacted their rest. Medications, exercise, and tobacco or alcohol consumption are a couple as well.
Can a Sleep Diary Help with Diagnosing Sleep Apnea?
One of the main benefits of sleep diaries is they can track different patterns that happen during the night. The data you write down can give sleep experts the clues they need to see if you are showing any worrying signs. For instance, if you note how you don’t have undisturbed nights and you feel drowsy during the day, then they can give your provider a hint that you might have sleep apnea.
If there are any worrying symptoms, then you may be told to undergo a sleep study next. This will give you the diagnosis you need to get a step closer to the proper rest you deserve.
What Should I Do After Getting a Sleep Apnea Diagnosis?
The traditional treatment of this condition is a CPAP machine, but there is another option that you may be able to get. Mild to moderate cases often benefit from an oral appliance. It’s customized to your smile, but it’ll reposition your lower jaw and tongue slightly forward. This will keep your airway open and reduce the risk of it collapsing and becoming blocked.
In the end, sleep apnea is much more than just snoring. It can make you feel more tired than when you went to bed, while also having an impact on your overall health. If you suspect you have it, then starting to keep a detailed log of your nightly routine can help you get the diagnosis and effective treatment you need.
About the Author
Dr. David Lloyd is a proud sleep dentist helping the Daytona Beach community get the undisturbed rest they deserve. He has advanced training that helps him treat conditions like sleep apnea with reliable solutions. By offering a customized oral appliance, you can improve your symptoms and start having more energy in the morning. If you are worried you have this condition, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Lloyd’s office at (386) 253-0115.