Breathing problems, apneas during the day?

[vilnius]

Since our airways are obstructed during the night (without CPAP), wouldn't that also mean that we'd have problems with breathing during the day as well? I was reading the book "Breath" by James Nestor where he talks about "email apneas," which is basically the suspension or shallowing of the breath while doing email. The root cause of that is psychological (email is stressful), but what about daytime apneas or shallowed breathing that could be because of our anatomy?

I used to run long distances and I averaged 6min per kilometer, which is a relatively slow pace. Now I'm thinking maybe I was slow because my airways are obstructed even when standing. In that case, the only cure would be some sort of portable mini-CPAP or surgery. I do have a mild case of pectus excavatum (self-diagnosed). I don't know the cause of my mild sleep apnea.

Thoughts?

[Julie]

During the day (theoretically, anyhow) your muscles and tissues are 'awake' and not flaccid as they can be at night, and you're also less likely to lie down and have your e.g. tongue obstruct your airway.

I think you're chasing the wrong rabbits.

[weiss27md]

Being more mindful helps with daytime breathing. Has to do with the parasympathetic versus sympathetic system. For most breathing problems people are mouth breathing and taking short, shallow, quicker breaths. You want to train to breathe from your nose at about 6 breaths a minute. So in for 5 seconds and out for 5 seconds slowly and continuous deep breaths. These short breaths can cause anxiety. So if you do have a daytime breathing problem it would be good to some breathing exercise, less stimulants, meditation, myofunctional therapy, etc. Have to stay mindful when doing repetitive activities.