The Influences Of Head Position In Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is characterized by stoppage of breathing for a couple of seconds when sleeping. There main subtypes of this condition exist based on the main cause. These are the central, obstructive and mixed or complex types. The commonest among the three is the obstructive type which usually results from excessive relation of throat muscles. The cause of the central type is due to inability of the brain to send appropriate signals to respiratory muscles. The effect of head position in sleep apnea has been extensively studied.
It has become evident that the dynamics of air movement in the respiratory tract show marked differences when one is in the upright position and when they lie down horizontally. Lying horizontally often causes some of the tissues in the airways particularly the soft palate and the uvula to fall back and cause restriction to the flow of air during respiration. This effect is even more pronounced during sleep due to excessive relaxation of these muscles.
Snoring is among the commonest symptoms of apnea. It is caused by vibration of tissues in the airways as the inspired air moves through. In cases where there is excessive obstruction, complete cessation of breathing will occur. The individual will have to wake up so as to restore breathing. It is important to be aware of the fact that snoring is not always present and other signs and symptoms will be used in making the diagnosis of this condition. These will include, for example, headaches in the morning, increased sleepiness and difficulties 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 possible solution is the use of what is referred to as the tennis ball T-shirt. This is a t-shirt that is modified by having a tennis ball sewn into it. The ball is strategically placed into a patch on the back such that it causes some discomfort when one lies on their back. They will naturally readjust into the lateral position which is what is desired. The results from the use of this t-shirt have been variable.
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.
It has become evident that the dynamics of air movement in the respiratory tract show marked differences when one is in the upright position and when they lie down horizontally. Lying horizontally often causes some of the tissues in the airways particularly the soft palate and the uvula to fall back and cause restriction to the flow of air during respiration. This effect is even more pronounced during sleep due to excessive relaxation of these muscles.
Snoring is among the commonest symptoms of apnea. It is caused by vibration of tissues in the airways as the inspired air moves through. In cases where there is excessive obstruction, complete cessation of breathing will occur. The individual will have to wake up so as to restore breathing. It is important to be aware of the fact that snoring is not always present and other signs and symptoms will be used in making the diagnosis of this condition. These will include, for example, headaches in the morning, increased sleepiness and difficulties 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 possible solution is the use of what is referred to as the tennis ball T-shirt. This is a t-shirt that is modified by having a tennis ball sewn into it. The ball is strategically placed into a patch on the back such that it causes some discomfort when one lies on their back. They will naturally readjust into the lateral position which is what is desired. The results from the use of this t-shirt have been variable.
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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