Sleep Apnea and Weighted Blankets: What You Should Know

Ever heard of a weighted blanket? You probably have due to all the online craze surrounding it. Many people claim it’s a lifesaver for those with ADHD, ASD, and sensory processing disorders by helping reduce anxiety and ease restless minds. They promise to improve anyone’s overall quality of sleep! Some research even suggests that it could be helpful to those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. In this blog post, we’ll explain more about how weighted blankets can benefit those with sleep disorders.

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?

A weighted blanket has an interior lining that’s filled with evenly distributed weight. They create the soothing sensation of being held by applying a light, even pressure over your entire body. People who have slept under one describe it as being held in a gentle hug. Studies show that weighted blankets exert “deep pressure stimulation”, which has proven to reduce stress, lower anxiety, and increase feelings of calmness.

Benefits of Weighted Blankets

The deep pressure stimulation that comes from weighted blankets can change plenty of hormones in the body and promote better sleep. Some benefits include:

• Stimulate Oxytocin – Oxytocin stimulates feelings of attachment, closeness, calmness, and relaxation. It has an essential role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle. Studies found that increasing oxytocin during sleep can increase sleep time and quality, which helps reduce symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.
• Decrease Cortisol – Deep pressure stimulation can lower cortisol levels, which is a hormone that plays a key role in the body’s stress response. It makes it difficult for people to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. While your cortisol levels naturally go down as your body gets ready for sleep, stress and anxiety can make them go up again. A weighted blanket can help your body suppress the release of this hormone to keep you relaxed.
• Increase Serotonin – A weighted blanket has also been proven to increase serotonin, which is a “feel-good” hormone that keeps you in a relaxed state. It stabilizes your mood and contributes to regulating sleep-wake cycles. Inadequate serotonin can lead to depression, anxiety, and disrupted sleep. By keeping the hormone at a healthy level, you can encourage a good night’s sleep.

In addition to being comfortable, a weighted blanket offers many benefits. If you’re struggling to get quality rest, consider trying one out!

About the Author

Dr. Robert G. Dernick is a proud graduate of the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston. After opening his practice in 1980, he’s become one of the most experienced dentists in The Woodlands. Dr. Dernick is happy to provide non-invasive sleep apnea therapy in the form of custom-made appliances. To learn more about sleep apnea treatment, visit his website or call (281) 783-3419.