The Truth Behind Weighted Blankets & Sleep Apnea

If you have obstructive sleep apnea, you may be eager to try anything so that you can experience a night of uninterrupted rest. While medications and other similar at-home remedies might seem popular, seeking the help of a trusted sleep dentist is most advantageous. But did you know that a weighted blanket can also help improve your symptoms? Read on to discover its benefits and how you can achieve a restful night.

What is the Purpose of a Weighted Blanket?

A weighted blanket is commonly used to help alleviate stress and anxiety in those who need help relaxing when trying to go to sleep.

It feels as if you are being hugged tightly by a loved one or friend because of the gentle pressure that is applied. Felt throughout your entire body, this type of blanket can reduce your heart rate and increase your chances of experiencing a deeper form of relaxation.

What Are the Benefits of a Weighted Blanket?

By incorporating a weighted blanket into your nightly sleep routine, you’ll find that:

• You feel calmer. The pressure of the weighted blanket will produce oxytocin – the “feel good” hormone. This hormone not only increases but also helps regulate your sleep cycle at night. It is believed, according to a study performed in 2017, that using this type of blanket can minimize the symptoms commonly associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
• You become less stressed. If you’re feeling anxious or stressed because of work, school, or other issues, your cortisol will increase. This makes it harder for you to fall and remain asleep throughout the night. By using a weighted blanket, the gentle pressure can help decrease this hormone and allow for a stress-free night of sleep.
• You feel more relaxed. When your serotonin levels increase, you become more relaxed while benefiting from a regulated sleep cycle. It helps with your mood and energy and promotes healthy nightly routines. Without it, you may feel more depressed or anxious.

Why Combine a Weighted Blanket with Sleep Apnea Treatment?

Seeing a sleep dentist for OSA treatment is important, as they can identify the issue and offer a safe and effective solution, such as an oral appliance.

However, by adding a weighted blanket to your treatment plan, you’ll enjoy even greater rest because of the way your hormones are reacting to the gentle pressure that is applied. You will likely fall asleep much faster than before, which means getting more rest thanks to it and the custom oral appliance your sleep dentist provides.

It’s important that you do not rely solely on a weighted blanket to improve your OSA symptoms, as it cannot prevent a blockage in your airway. However, in combination with professional treatment, you can experience a calmer, more relaxing sleeping experience.

About the Author
Dr. Shelley Shults is a board-certified registered nurse, general dentist, family nurse practitioner, and dental sleep medicine practitioner who oversees the team at Powell Dental Sleep Solutions. Using some of the most advanced technologies, techniques, and methods, she aims to help patients get the rest they need while embracing life to its fullest. If you are curious about adding a weighted blanket to your sleep apnea treatment, contact us at (614) 396-9310.