What lifestyle modifications can I recommend to patients with central sleep apnea to help alleviate their symptoms?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 17 August 2025Updated: 17 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Patients with central sleep apnea can be recommended the following lifestyle modifications to help alleviate their symptoms:

  • Weight loss: Encouraging weight loss through diet, exercise, and, if appropriate, weight loss surgery can reduce airway collapsibility and improve symptoms.
  • Smoking cessation: Stopping smoking is advised to improve respiratory health and reduce sleep apnea severity.
  • Reducing alcohol intake: Limiting alcohol consumption can help prevent worsening of sleep apnea symptoms.
  • Improving sleep hygiene and sleeping position: Advising patients to avoid sleeping on their back and to sleep on their side where possible may reduce apnoea episodes.

These lifestyle changes should be tailored to the individual's needs and combined with specialist treatments when necessary.

Support and information should be provided to patients to facilitate these changes, including referral to relevant resources and ongoing monitoring of associated conditions.

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