If you’ve heard the chatter about weighted blankets recently, you may be wondering if they’d be any use in treating your sleep apnea. Ideal for sensory issues, anxiety, and sleep disorders, here’s how one of these trendy devices could help you get the rest your body needs.
What are Weighted Blankets?
A weighted blanket is a comforter or blanket that is filled with tiny glass or plastic beads in place of cotton or down. This gives them extra heft, so when in use, it feels like you’re being swaddled like a baby or gently hugged. This in turn can create feelings of calm that may help you fall and stay asleep.
There are several different weights you can choose from, ranging from five to 30 pounds, and they also come in different fabrics and sizes.
Can I Benefit from a Weighted Blanket?
Weighted blankets were not designed to treat any specific conditions, and you don’t need to have any medical or other issues to benefit from one. Studies have shown that they can influence the production of three key hormones and improve your sleep, such as:
- Melatonin: The extra weight can increase the body’s natural melatonin production, which may help fight insomnia.
- Oxytocin: This hormone is automatically released when you receive a hug, and the weight of your blanket may also boost your body’s production.
- Cortisol: Weighted blankets may lower your body’s production of this hormone that is released when you’re feeling stressed, helping you relax enough to fall asleep.
Do Weighted Blankets Help with Sleep Apnea
While each patient is different, data has shown that using a weighted blanket could be helpful when treating sleep apnea. However, before you invest in one, speak to your doctor or sleep dentist first to ensure you get the correct weight. If your blanket is too heavy, it could make your airway problems worse. Furthermore, if you suffer from claustrophobia, a weighted blanket could make you more anxious or stressed.
Remember, weighted blankets have been shown to help patients with sleep disorders fall and stay asleep. If you’d like to see if you’d benefit from this type of treatment, speak to your sleep dentist or doctor today and see if you’re a good candidate.
About Our Practice
At SleepMed Solutions, Dr. Bagley and Dr. Wagner want to help you get the restful night’s sleep you deserve. If you suffer from sleep apnea, there’s no need to keep feeling tired and sluggish. Schedule an appointment for sleep apnea treatment today to learn more about your treatment options and get the rest you deserve. To book a sleep apnea consultation, visit our website or call us today at 336-907-7773.