3 Must-Know Tips for Managing Your Sleep Apnea This Halloween

Halloween is an exciting time of year for many of us—with so many spooky festivities, phenomenal costume parties, and delicious candies and seasonal snacks to enjoy, there’s no shortage of fun to have! However, it’s not always easy to focus on having fun if you’re constantly tired. Patients with sleep apnea might find themselves yawning, groggy, or simply unable to enjoy the holiday due to their condition. But sleep apnea isn’t something that you should needlessly suffer from—here are a few tips to help you manage yours so that you can feel well-rested and ready to party this Halloween!

Tip #1. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for those with sleep apnea. Despite all the fun Halloween festivities and late-night parties you may be attending, you should still try to stick to your regular bedtime routine and aim to go to bed at roughly the same time every evening. This will greatly help to regulate your sleeping patterns while minimizing disruptions caused by the haunting effects of sleep apnea. Set a timer or alarm to remind yourself to head home and wind down, turn off your devices and minimize your screen time, and hit the hay when it’s time!

Tip #2. Be Mindful of Halloween Treats

While the temptation of Halloween candy and treats is certainly hard to resist, you should be cautious about indulging in sugary snacks, especially close to bedtime. Not only does eating sugar before bed increase the risk of cavities, but sugar can also disrupt sleep—which can make it even tougher for those with sleep apnea to remain resting. Additionally, sleep apnea has been linked to systematic conditions including diabetes, meaning that a spike in blood sugar is very possible.

Tip #3. Choose Your Costume Wisely

You should embrace the Halloween spirit with a costume that’s comfortable to wear, as bulky or restrictive costumes might exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms. Opt for something lightweight and breathable, especially if you’re planning on being out and about; if you come home tired and out of breath, it might impact your sleeping patterns. And if you’re really feeling creative, you might even find a way to incorporate your CPAP mask into your Halloween costume—just don’t combine it with any face paint, as this could cause chaffing and make your device difficult to wear.

About the Author

Dr. Deborah A. Romack received her DDS from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has served patients and families in the Weatherford, TX community for several years. Dr. Romack is also a proud member of several professional dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Her practice is excited to offer a wide range of services, including sleep apnea therapy. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with her team to set up an appointment, feel free to visit the practice’s website or call them today for assistance. Telephone: (817) 594-3806.