The impact of drowsy driving can be difficult to measure. Nevertheless, some statistics estimate that around 800 people die each year, and tens of thousands are injured, due to drowsy driving. Indeed, being well-rested behind the wheel is a matter of life and death! How can you stay safe on the road and avoid the dangers of drowsy driving, even if you have sleep apnea? This blog post provides some helpful information.
The Culprit Behind Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving can occur due to a number of causes. For example, you might have a demanding work schedule that requires you to be awake at odd hours. Some new parents are always tired due to their baby’s nighttime demands. Other people choose a lifestyle that leaves little room for a healthy sleep schedule.
Certainly, you should take all reasonable steps to cope with such issues so you can get adequate rest. But what if you are already doing everything you can to stick to a good sleep schedule, but you still feel exhausted every day? You might have sleep apnea. This disorder causes pauses in breathing throughout the night; they disrupt the sleep cycle and can lead to daily fatigue.
Aside from feeling tired, additional symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Waking up gasping for air
- Frequent nighttime urination
- Morning headaches and sore throats
Avoid Drowsy Driving
Even if you have sleep apnea, there are practical steps you can take to protect both yourself and others on the road:
- Prioritize Professional Treatment: The most important step for drivers with sleep apnea is to seek help from a qualified healthcare team. Professional diagnosis and treatment can address the root cause of your fatigue and help restore restful sleep.
- Use Prescribed Devices Consistently: If a healthcare professional has recommended that you use a special oral appliance or another device, use it consistently as directed.
- Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: If possible, go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. This can help regulate your body’s clock and improve sleep quality.
- Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives Before Bed: These substances can worsen sleep apnea symptoms and make you more prone to feeling tired the next day. Choose calming bedtime routines that do not involve alcohol or sleep-inducing medications unless prescribed.
- Assess Your Alertness Before Driving: If you feel drowsy, do not get behind the wheel. Take a few moments to evaluate your level of fatigue and be honest with yourself about whether you are fit to drive.
- Take Scheduled Breaks on Long Trips: Plan to rest every couple of hours. Even a brief nap can help restore alertness and reduce the risk of drowsy driving.
- Recognize Warning Signs: Watch for frequent yawning, drifting from your lane, or trouble remembering the last few miles driven. Pull over immediately if these occur.
Every time you get behind the wheel, lives are in your hands! Do everything you can to address your sleep apnea and remain an alert driver.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Russell Teasdale is a dentist with decades of experience. He and our Portland team specialize in providing state-of-the-art treatment for sleep apnea, including advanced Vivos appliances, laser therapy, and more. If you believe you have sleep apnea or are dissatisfied with your current treatment, we can guide you on your next steps. Contact Evolution Dental at 503-974-3829.