Apnea, meaning without wind, is a pause in the breathing pattern that can be a serious condition if it happens for a prolonged amount of time. According to KidsHealth.org, apnea is usually caused by obstruction of the airways, but can also be caused by a developmental delay of the part of the brain that controls breathing, or a combination of both. Apnea is most common during sleep because the throat relaxes and collapses more easily. Throat-strengthening exercises may be able to decrease apnea severity.
Didgeridoo
The didgeridoo is an Australian musical instrument that is played by blowing into its long pipe. Playing it, or other instruments, can help strengthen the throat muscles surrounding the airways, according to the New York Times. Play this instrument for about 15 to 30 minutes daily for a fun way to help your apnea.
Open and Close
Kennedy's Disease Association, KDA, suggests open and closing the mouth as quickly as you can, making sure the lips touch, as an exercise for apnea. You can also try making the sounds, "mah-mah-mah," "lah-lah-lah" and ""kah-kah-kah" as quickly as you can.
Spoon
Stick your tongue out of your mouth and place the round part of a spoon against the tip of your extended tongue. Hold the spoon in place firmly with your hand while you try to push the spoon away with your tongue, the KDA suggests.
Finger Suck
KMBC.com reports that Dr. Mike Nelson, a practitioner at Shawnee Mission Medical Center suggests placing a finger in your mouth. Suck on the finger as hard as you can for several seconds and repeat about five times.
