Get the Facts: CBD and Sleep Apnea

Many people are choosing to look for ways to reach optimal wellness using natural solutions. CBD is a popular remedy for a variety of health issues that can affect your quality of life. While you might have heard about its benefits for cancer patients and other medical conditions, researchers are also learning more about the potential effects it can have on sleep apnea. Here’s what the latest research has found about its influence on the sleep disorder.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of the condition. It can cause hundreds of pauses in breathing every night, with each interruption potentially lasting for a minute or longer. It’s caused by the soft tissues in the back of the mouth or throat collapsing, causing the airway to narrow. With no treatment, it can have potentially deadly complications. It can also significantly affect your quality of life, causing sleep deprivation, memory loss, and mood changes.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound derived from the cannabis sativa plant, more commonly known as marijuana. Although there’s much debate about the use of marijuana to treat many medical alignments, CBD can be found in many forms, including gummies, oils, and candies. It has quickly become a go-to remedy to treat a variety of issues, like pain, depression, and even sleep apnea.

Is CBD Safe for Sleep Apnea?

Researchers believe that CBD can make it easier for a person to fall asleep, which can benefit people with insomnia. It can also relax the muscles in the body to prevent them from collapsing to block the airway while sleeping. Although researchers have found promising results, they still recommend visiting a sleep professional for treatment. 

Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Although many home remedies can improve your sleep quality and reduce your symptoms, they aren’t any substitute for traditional treatment. Your sleep specialist will create a personalized plan to help you breathe better, like:

• CPAP Machine: A CPAP machine is the most traditional method of treating sleep apnea. A mask is worn over the mouth or nose to deliver a steady stream of air pressure to prevent breathing disruptions.
• Oral Appliance: An oral appliance is a preferred solution among patients with mild-to-moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea. The custom-fit device positions the tongue and jaw in a more comfortable position to prevent the soft tissues from blocking the airway. It can be used alone or along with a CPAP machine.

It’s important to speak with your sleep specialist before trying any home remedies. They’ll create the personalized plan you need to feel your best.

About Dr. Robert Dernick

Dr. Dernick achieved his dental degree from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston and has regularly continued his education in many specialties, including sleep medicine. He offers the latest solutions to treat sleep apnea and sleep-disordered breathing using oral appliances. Request an appointment through our website or call (281) 612-6316.