Obstructive sleep apnea is a health condition characterized by the patient waking up multiple times throughout the night due to their airway becoming constricted. Dealing with this issue on a nightly basis can take a considerable toll on your overall health and lead to issues like grogginess, grouchiness, fatigue, obesity, and even falling asleep while driving. Here’s a brief guide to how a weighted blanket may help reduce your sleep apnea symptoms so you can get better shuteye.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
When you sleep, the muscles and other tissues throughout your body relax, and this reduced tension can allow the structures in your neck to weigh heavily upon your throat. For sleep apnea patients, this causes the airway to become restricted, resulting in the patient waking up when their brain realizes that they body isn’t getting enough oxygen. This problem may be aggravated by obesity, and it can happen a hundred times or more in a single night in severe cases.
Can a Weighted Blanked Help Sleep Apnea?
Weighted blankets apply slight pressure evenly across the body, resulting in what is known as “deep pressure stimulation.” Many people find that this has a deeply relaxing effect that can lower levels of arousal in the nervous system and reduce the effects of anxiety. It can also help lower the heart rate, and all these effects together may help many sleep apnea patients enjoy better rest at night.
How Else Can I Reduce My Sleep Apnea Symptoms?
Luckily, there are a host of other methods that may reduce your sleep apnea symptoms. A few of these include:
- Sleeping with your head in an elevated position: Propping up your head with cushions at night or sleeping in a recliner may reduce the pressure your neck puts on your airway.
- Regular exercise: Engaging in frequent vigorous cardio activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and leave you more tired at the end of the day so you can sleep better.
- Smart eating decisions: Avoiding heavy foods before bed can set you up for smooth and comfortable digestion overnight, and sticking to a healthy diet can help you reduce the amount of tissue that can weigh down on your airway.
Don’t let sleep apnea leave you tired and frustrated day after day. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to reduce your symptoms.
About the Practice
Downtown Denver Sleep Solutions offers the finest sleep apnea treatments in town. Led by Drs. Glenn Thompson and Gary Radz, the staff ensures that each patient receives courteous service and effective care in a calm and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include snoring treatment and oral appliance therapy. If you believe you may have sleep apnea, contact the office online or dial (303) 377-5337.