How a Weighted Blanket Can Benefit People with Sleep Apnea

Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular in recent years. If you don’t have one, you might be thinking about getting one thanks to all the hype they’ve been getting on social media. It’s considered a lifesaver for people with ADHD, ASD, and sensory processing disorders because it helps reduce anxiety and ease restless minds. However, these blankets have caught the attention of the general public because they claim to improve anyone’s quality of sleep. Read on to learn how a weighted blanket can benefit those with sleep apnea.

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?

Many people claim that sleeping with a weighted blanket feels like being embraced in a good, long hug. These unique blankets have an interior lining that’s filled with evenly distributed weight, which applies gentle yet even pressure over your entire body.

Believe it or not, touch and gently applied pressure have powerful psychological and physical effects. Weighted blankets exert what’s known as “deep pressure stimulation,” which decreases the activity of the body’s sympathetic nervous system. As a result, you experience feelings of relaxation and calmness.  

What Is It Like to Sleep Under a Weighted Blanket?

Sleeping under a weighted blanket is often described as being held in a gentle hug. The soothing sensation of being held helps keep you more still when you’re in bed. Not only does it create a deep sense of relaxation, but the calmness makes it easier for you to fall asleep at night. Most people find it helps them fall asleep more soundly and experience fewer awakenings throughout the night.

The Incredible Benefits of Weighted Blankets

A weighted blanket can cause hormonal changes in the body that are beneficial for sleep, such as:

• Stimulates oxytocin. Oxytocin is what stimulates feelings of attachment, closeness, calmness, and relaxation. Increasing it during sleep can boost sleep time and quality, meaning it can reduce symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.
• Decreases cortisol. Deep pressure stimulation can reduce cortisol levels, a hormone that plays a key role in the body’s stress response. A weighted blanket can help your body suppress the release of this hormone to prevent stress and anxiety.
• Increases serotonin. Studies show that deep pressure stimulation can increase serotonin, a “feel-good” hormone that helps stabilize your mood and contributes to regulating sleep-wake cycles.

Are you struggling with sleep apnea? Consider using a weighted blanket at night! Not only will you feel cozy, but it can lead to an overall better quality of sleep.

About the Practice

At Covington Sleep Center, we are passionate about helping patients enjoy a better quality of sleep. If you’re struggling with sleep apnea, our team will help you find an effective and comfortable way to achieve a good night’s rest. To learn more about the benefits of a weighted blanket, visit our website or call (770) 710-5268.