Healthy Living

How Sleep Apnea Leads to a Lack of REM Sleep

What are some other ways?

  • Eat early: Finish eating two to three hours before going to bed to allow time for digestion before going to bed.
  • Create a sleeping environment: Make sure the sleeping environment is pleasant by making the room dark, cool, and comfortable. Avoid watching TV or using a computer in bed.
  • Manage substances and medication: Analyze how a specific substance and medication you use may compromise your REM sleep. Usage of REM substance and medication should be addressed by your healthcare provider. You may want to look at alternative conventional antidepressants and other REM-suppressant psychiatric medications.
  • See a doctor:  Check with a medical practitioner for any underlying conditions and get treatment. If it is as a result of sleep apnea, the doctor may recommend the following:(1) lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, weight management, and exercise; (2)prescribe medication to help you stay awake during the day; or (3) use Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) to help the patient in breathing. If sleep apnea is caused by a blockage that can be easily fixed, then surgery can also be a choice.

It is also important to note that self-diagnosis and treatment are extremely dangerous.