Alternative Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder, is often treated by devices like CPAP, which are uncomfortable for some people. Alternative treatments for sleep apnea are sometimes very effective and are not uncomfortable for the patient...

Sleep apnea is a very grave sleep disorder, in which breathing stops intermittently for brief periods of time during sleep. There are three types of sleep apnea - obstructive, central and complex. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by some physical blockage of airflow to the lungs, like relaxed throat muscles. Central sleep apnea is the result of failure on part of the brain to send the required signals to control breathing. Complex sleep apnea is considered as a combination of both central and obstructive sleep apnea. Even though there are three types of sleep apnea, according to some studies almost 85% of reported cases account for obstructive sleep apnea, followed by complex and central sleep apnea.

Conventional Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Moderate to severe cases of sleep apnea require treatment to avoid complications like congestive heart failure. The most common sleep apnea treatment is a device called CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). A CPAP device keeps the air passage open with the flow of pressurized air to the airways of the affected person. Another device called BiPAP (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure) is also used as part of conventional treatment for sleep apnea. Unlike CPAP, which takes care of the inhalation only, a BiPAP controls both inhalation and exhalation, and adjusts the air pressure automatically. Another treatment option is oral appliance therapy, which is mainly used in people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. This involves an oral appliance, which is to be used to ensure an unobstructed airflow.

Some of the affected people may not show any improvements with the use of the above said devices. In such cases, surgery is recommended, in order to open up the airway. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, maxillomandibular advancement, and tracheostomy are commonly suggested. In short, conventional treatment for this sleep disorder includes the usage of these devices or surgeries.

Alternative Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Even though some of the alternative treatments for sleep apnea are found to be beneficial to control sleep apnea, there are no scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of these methods. But it would be beneficial if used in conjunction with conventional treatment methods. It can also be adopted in case of mild sleep apnea, where, usually doctors do not prescribe any treatment other than some lifestyle changes. Here are some of the alternative treatments, which can be beneficial to those suffering from sleep apnea.

Most people affected by sleep apnea are found to be obese. In case of obese people, soft tissues are formed around the neck, causing breathing difficulties. Hence, this disorder can be controlled to some extent by shedding the extra pounds through regular exercise and diet control.

Breathing exercises are very beneficial in case of sleep apnea. Practicing 'pranayama', a breathing technique of 'yoga', has been found to be helpful to some extent.

Homeopathic medicines are also a good option, if taken in conjunction with conventional treatment. Homeopathy practitioners administer medicines according to the personality type of the patient, and in case of sleep apnea, they recommend avoidance of sugar and allergic foods. Most commonly used medicines are lachesis and homeopathic opium.

Acupuncture treatments aim to correct the imbalance which leads to sleep apnea. It is claimed that undergoing several acupuncture sessions can bring back the patient to a normal sleeping pattern. But while undergoing the treatment, the patients should refrain from consumption of caffeine. A change in lifestyle and diet is also recommended.

It is also observed that vervain, a herbal medicine is effective in controlling the disorder in some of the affected people. It is believed that people with strong emotions are prone to sleep apnea, and vervain, which has a calming effect, is good to control troubles related to sleep.

Another technique adopted to tackle sleep apnea aims at strengthening the muscles of the airways. Loosening of throat muscles is a reason for the blockage of the airway, which results in sleep apnea. These muscles should be made stronger to avoid this problem. This can be achieved through regular singing sessions or playing a wind instrument called 'didgeridoo'.

In some cases, changing the sleeping position may also benefit affected people. Try to avoid sleeping on the back or on the stomach. It is always better to sleep on the side.

It is also advisable to avoid smoking, consumption of alcohol, and sedating drugs.

If you experience any symptoms of sleep apnea, you should consult a doctor immediately and try the above methods, along with conventional treatment. However, alternative treatments for sleep apnea, like all other alternative medicines, should be tried only after the approval of your doctor.