Can a Weighted Blanket Help with My Sleep Apnea?

Weighted blankets are on the rise as a non-pharmaceutical sleep aid. Many people find that using a weighted blanket decreases anxiety, helps them fall asleep faster, and enables them to stay asleep longer. Can a weighted blanket in Vero Beach help you if you suffer from sleep apnea? While it won’t be able to replace your regular sleep apnea treatment, it might still have some significant benefits, including the following:

Increased Oxytocin

Oxytocin is colloquially called the “love hormone” because it is released during hugs and other physical expressions of affection. It has a calming effect and is associated with lower levels of stress and anxiety. Research indicates that individuals with higher oxytocin levels experience fewer apneas (periods of not breathing) throughout the night.

You could increase your oxytocin levels by snuggling with your significant other at night, but if you are single or your partner’s movements at night are bothersome, that might not be possible. A weighted blanket simulates the sensation of being hugged and stimulates the release of oxytocin.

Reduced Cortisol

Cortisol is also known as the “stress hormone.” It puts your body into fight or flight mode, which is a good thing when you face short-term dangers or stressors. However, having high levels of cortisol for an extended period of time is detrimental to health. It can cause muscles throughout your body to tense up, including the muscles that control breathing. In turn, this could lead to a higher rate of apneas. A weighted blanket can help to reduce cortisol levels and may therefore lesson the frequency of your apneas.

Cortisol is also associated with unwanted weight gain, and being overweight is a major risk factor for sleep apnea in Vero Beach. Lowering levels of this hormone, through a weighted blanket or other means, may help you to maintain a healthy body composition.

Increased Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that puts your body in a state of quiet relaxation, which in turn promotes sleep. Darkness is one of the key factors that stimulates melatonin production, but a weighted blanket can also help. This can be especially valuable for people with sleep apnea who find it difficult to drift off to sleep in the evening

Stay Asleep Longer

Individuals with sleep apnea often experience fragmented sleep and frequent nighttime awakenings. The deep pressure stimulation that a weighted blanket provides may help you stay asleep and enjoy better overall sleep quality.

Other Benefits of Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets have many other benefits, some of which are not directly related to sleep apnea. For example, they may increase the feel-good hormone serotonin, and they have been used as a form of therapy for people with autism and ADHD. Plus, they carry virtually no risks, and they are affordable.

Do you have sleep apnea? A weighted blanket may play a role in helping you manage your condition.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is an experienced dentist who is double board certified in dental sleep medicine. He focuses primarily on providing oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea. If you are curious about your options for managing sleep apnea, he would be happy to speak with you at any of our three convenient locations. Contact our Vero Beach office at 772-882-6800.