Not many people think about whether they fall asleep on their stomach, back, or side when hopping under the covers or how it can affect a restful night’s sleep. But for 26% of American adults with a sleep apnea diagnosis, thinking about sleep positions is a critical aspect of treating their symptoms in conjunction with medical devices.

This type of diagnosis can affect almost every aspect of daily life. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine states that individuals suffering from this debilitating diagnosis have an increased risk for many health complications, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke, and depression. Interrupted sleep due to blocked airways can also affect a person’s memory, mood, and balance. These lifestyle implications affect every aspect of a person’s daily life.

 Life With Obstructed Sleep

Interrupted sleep caused by obstructed airways does not discriminate. It can affect anyone at any age but is more common in adults over 60. For those experiencing airway blockages during sleeping periods, airway blockages can worsen during REM sleep. Which reduces the body’s recuperative rest and its ability to function at maximum potential during the day. Additionally, if an individual suffers from interrupted sleep due to obstructed airways, their partner can also wave farewell to a peaceful night’s sleep.

Healthy sleeping habits are essential for a fulfilling and healthy life. Additionally, sleep positions are one way to alleviate obstructed airways and prevent lifestyle implications like memory loss or the negative impact on relationships.

 Treating Sleep Apnea

Oral appliance therapy like Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), Mandibular Advancement Splints (MAS), Mandibular Repositioning Appliances (MRA), Tongue Retaining Device, MicrO₂® Sleep device, or CPA machines are treatment options for preventing airway blockage. Although these devices treat symptoms and prevent the tongue from blocking the airway, they are paired with continual follow-ups to ensure optimal results.

 Sleep Positions for Obstructed Airways

Lifestyle changes, including sleeping positions, can also help individuals reach a restful and relaxing night’s sleep. The many different sleeping positions can make determining the best sleep position difficult. The best sleeping positions for those suffering from interrupted sleep due to blocked airways are:

• Side sleeping
  • This position is the most effective sleeping style as it promotes air and blood flow throughout the body.
• Elevated sleeping
  • Symptoms will dramatically worsen for back sleepers. For this reason, back sleep should be used when it is possible to appropriately elevate the head to prevent gravity from pulling the tongue down and blocking the airway.
• Stomach sleeping
  • Be cautious of stomach sleeping as it can lead to neck pain.

 Contact Dr. Buck

Dr. Buck is a facial orthopedist based in the state of Washington. Dr. Buck, and his fellow ENT physicians and pulmonologists, by combining their expertise, help patients find relief from sleep apnea. With Dr. Buck and his team, relief from the severity and alleviate symptoms of sleep breathing issues is possible. For more information on Dr. Buck’s practice and the treatment options he provides, please schedule an appointment or call us today at 425-361-7499.