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Diagnosing Sleep Apnoea During Pregnancy
If you suspect sleep apnoea, talk to your healthcare professional as soon as possible. They’ll likely start by asking about your symptoms and how you’re feeling during the day. Your partner’s observations can also be helpful, like noticing loud snoring during pregnancy or breathing pauses.1.Physical Exam
Your doctor will examine your mouth, nose, and throat for signs such as a narrow airway, large tonsils, or a deviated septum. They may also measure your neck circumference or check your blood pressure.
2. Sleep Study (Polysomnography)
This is the most common test to diagnose sleep apnoea. It can be done at a sleep centre or at home with a portable device.
The study measures your breathing patterns, airflow, blood oxygen levels, and sleep cycles to confirm if you have sleep apnoea and how severe it is.
- Mild: 5 to 14 breathing pauses per hour
- Moderate: 15 to 29 pauses per hour
- Severe: 30 or more pauses per hour
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnoea During Pregnancy
The treatment will depend on how severe it is, but these are the main options your doctor might suggest:- Sleep on your left side: Sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnoea. Your doctor may recommend sleeping on your left side to reduce pressure on your airway. If this isn’t your usual position, try using a body pillow to stay comfortable.
- Nasal strips or sprays: Over-the-counter nasal strips can help keep your airways open. Saline sprays or rinses can reduce congestion, and a humidifier in your bedroom can also help. Always check with your doctor before using any decongestants.
- Healthy weight management: Gaining weight at a steady, doctor-recommended pace can lower your risk. Focus on nutritious foods like proteins and vegetables to stay full and support your baby’s growth. If you’re not sure what’s best for your diet, ask your doctor for guidance.
- Exercise regularly: Low-impact activities like walking, yoga, or stretching can improve your energy, mood, and sleep quality. Try to avoid high-impact exercises, and always consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine.
- CPAP therapy: For moderate to severe cases, a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is often recommended. This device delivers a steady flow of air through a mask or nasal pillows to keep your airway open. It’s safe during pregnancy and can improve your sleep quality, blood pressure, and overall energy. It might take a few weeks to get used to, but many people find it soothing once they adjust.
- Mouthguards or dental devices: In milder cases, a custom-fitted mouthpiece can help by keeping your jaw or tongue in a position that prevents airway collapse. A dentist fits these and may be an option if CPAP isn’t suitable.
Does Sleep Apnoea Go Away After Pregnancy?
Sleep apnoea improves or even disappears after delivery, especially if it was triggered by pregnancy-related changes like weight gain or hormonal shifts. As your uterus shrinks and you lose some pregnancy weight, your symptoms may ease.However, it might stick around if you had sleep apnoea before pregnancy or have risk factors. In these cases, a follow-up sleep study a few months after delivery can check if the condition is still present. If it persists, your doctor can suggest long-term treatment options to keep you healthy.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Sleep Apnoea
Don’t wait to talk to your doctor if you’re noticing signs of sleep apnoea. They can walk you through the next steps, whether it’s a physical check-up, a sleep study, or any lifestyle changes. Getting help early can keep you and your baby healthy.- Bring your partner to appointments: They might notice symptoms you’re unaware of, like snoring during pregnancy.
- Track your symptoms: Note how often you feel tired, wake up with headaches, or struggle to focus. This can help your doctor make a diagnosis.
- Ask about safe treatments: Do not try treatment options based on blogs or online articles. They are meant for information only. Your doctor is the only one who can recommend what’s safe and effective for you.
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FAQs on How to Manage Breathing Difficulties While Sleeping During Pregnancy
- How to stop snoring when pregnant?
You might find relief by sleeping on your side with extra pillows and keeping your nose clear. If the condition persists, consult your doctor. - Why am I facing difficulty breathing during pregnancy while lying down?
This can happen because the growing uterus puts pressure on your lungs and diaphragm. Changing sleep position often helps .