Sleep apnea is a condition in which there is transient cessation if breathing while sleeping. There are three subtypes that have been identified. They include obstructive, central and complex types. The obstructive subtype is the commonest and is associated with excessive relation of throat muscles. The central type is caused by failure of the brain to send the signals necessary for the respiratory muscles to contract and relax. Several studies on head position in sleep apnea have been carried out.
Among the findings that have come out from various studies is the fact that there is a significant difference in the pattern of air flow between the vertical and horizontal head orientation. While lying supine, breathing has to overcome the effect of gravity. In this orientation, the tissues in the soft palate and the uvula fall back into the throat and cause obstruction. This effect is even greater during sleep because of generalized muscular relaxation.
Snoring, a common associated symptom of apnea is the result of vibration of relaxed tissues within the respiratory tract. If the restriction is too much it will result in complete blockage of air movement. It is important to note that not everyone with the condition snores so other signs and symptoms may be used in making the diagnosis. These include, among others, excessive sleepiness during the day, morning headache and difficulty in paying attention.
A study carried out in 2017 was a confirmation that head position has an effect on the severity of symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (or OSA). Most of the subjects in the study showed less severity of symptoms when the sleeping position was restricted to lateral. This changes was, however, not seen in obese patients underlining the huge contribution of weight to the problem.
The position in which an individual sleeps may not be very easy to determine. Left on its own, the body will find the most comfortable position and will keep making adjustments throughout the night. To achieve a particular head orientation, therefore, requires a deliberate effort. There are several suggestions that have been advanced.
Contoured pillows are among some of the most effective devices in maintaining position. This is in contrast to ordinary pillows which change shape as the body is adjusted. The contoured pillow is also beneficial in maintaining neck and spine alignment. Different designs of the pillow exist but the effect is largely the same.
Another solution that may be considered is what is termed the tennis ball T-shirt. This is a simple solution in which an ordinary T-shirt is has a tennis ball sewn at the back into a patch. The T-shirt is worn at night such that it causes discomfort in the wearer when they lie on their back. This makes them to readjust to the lateral orientation making it easier for them to breath and thus reduce the likelihood of apneic attacks.
Adopting an appropriate sleeping position is vital in the management of sleep apnea when used on its own or alongside other measures. The method is, however, only effective for the obstructive type and not the central central and complex types. If you suspect to be suffering from this condition, you will be well advised to see a physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Among the findings that have come out from various studies is the fact that there is a significant difference in the pattern of air flow between the vertical and horizontal head orientation. While lying supine, breathing has to overcome the effect of gravity. In this orientation, the tissues in the soft palate and the uvula fall back into the throat and cause obstruction. This effect is even greater during sleep because of generalized muscular relaxation.
Snoring, a common associated symptom of apnea is the result of vibration of relaxed tissues within the respiratory tract. If the restriction is too much it will result in complete blockage of air movement. It is important to note that not everyone with the condition snores so other signs and symptoms may be used in making the diagnosis. These include, among others, excessive sleepiness during the day, morning headache and difficulty in paying attention.
A study carried out in 2017 was a confirmation that head position has an effect on the severity of symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (or OSA). Most of the subjects in the study showed less severity of symptoms when the sleeping position was restricted to lateral. This changes was, however, not seen in obese patients underlining the huge contribution of weight to the problem.
The position in which an individual sleeps may not be very easy to determine. Left on its own, the body will find the most comfortable position and will keep making adjustments throughout the night. To achieve a particular head orientation, therefore, requires a deliberate effort. There are several suggestions that have been advanced.
Contoured pillows are among some of the most effective devices in maintaining position. This is in contrast to ordinary pillows which change shape as the body is adjusted. The contoured pillow is also beneficial in maintaining neck and spine alignment. Different designs of the pillow exist but the effect is largely the same.
Another solution that may be considered is what is termed the tennis ball T-shirt. This is a simple solution in which an ordinary T-shirt is has a tennis ball sewn at the back into a patch. The T-shirt is worn at night such that it causes discomfort in the wearer when they lie on their back. This makes them to readjust to the lateral orientation making it easier for them to breath and thus reduce the likelihood of apneic attacks.
Adopting an appropriate sleeping position is vital in the management of sleep apnea when used on its own or alongside other measures. The method is, however, only effective for the obstructive type and not the central central and complex types. If you suspect to be suffering from this condition, you will be well advised to see a physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
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