Doctors say that in many cases, sleep apnea can be reduced with lifestyle changes.

The primary changes recommended are to lose weight, if you are overweight, and to stop smoking and consuming alcohol.

Of course, none of those lifestyle changes are easy to make, but they can make a real difference in your incidence of sleep apnea.

Other changes frequently recommended by doctors include:

• Use nasal strips to open your air passages.
• Avoid sleeping pills and tranquilizers.
• Sleep on your side instead of on your back.
• Stay in close communication with your doctor regarding your symptoms and any changes you make.
• Avoid sleeping on oversized pillows.
• Consider using an ionic air cleaner in your bedroom to filter out potential allergens that may contribute to clogging your breathing.