Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can make it difficult to get a good night’s rest. Continual breathing interruptions can disrupt your sleep cycle and cause you to feel exhausted every day. What can you do to reduce your symptoms and start feeling better? Of course, you should seek professional treatment. However, there may also be some things you can do on your own to see improvements. For example, you might start sleeping in a recliner. How could that help your sleep apnea? This blog post explains.
Benefits of Sleeping in a Recliner
Sleeping at a slight incline has at least two potential benefits for individuals with sleep apnea:
- Improved breathing. OSA occurs when tissues in the airway block the flow of oxygen. When you sleep on your back, gravity is working against you; those tissues become more likely to cause blockages. When you sleep at an incline, you can make gravity work to your advantage. Research has revealed that sleeping at an incline of 30 – 60 degrees improves sleep apnea in many people.
- Reduced acid reflux. Many people with OSA also experience acid reflux. Sleeping at an incline may help to reduce this issue and make you more comfortable at night.
Of course, a recliner is not the only way to adjust the angle at which you sleep. A large wedge pillow can accomplish the same thing, as can an adjustable mattress.
Do Not Neglect Professional Treatment
Changing your sleep position has the potential to help you manage your OSA. However, do not view simple adjustments like this as a substitute for professional care. A qualified doctor can give you personalized advice and help you determine the exact steps you should take to manage your condition. You may need an oral appliance or another treatment to optimize the quality of your sleep.
An oral appliance can work alongside your recliner to help you enjoy restful sleep. It can also be indispensable when you are away from home and do not have access to your favorite comfy chair.
Sleeping at an incline can be beneficial for OSA patients. Why not try it to see if it reduces your symptoms?
Meet the Practice
Dr. Mitch Conditt is an experienced dentist who specializes in providing oral appliance therapy for individuals with OSA. If you have concerns about the quality of your sleep, or you would like to learn more about oral appliances and how they work, our team would be happy to speak with you. Contact Fort Worth Snoring & Sleep Center at 817-527-8500.