Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. While it has a number of uses (such as soothing pain or reducing nausea), some people say it can potentially help with sleep apnea. But is this actually true, or are you better off searching for alternative treatment options? Here’s a closer look at CBD as a possible solution for patients who are experiencing sleep-disordered breathing.
What Exactly is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a type of sleep disorder where breathing is repeatedly interrupted during slumber. While there are different kinds of sleep apnea, the most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the airway is fully or partially blocked. The frequency of sleep apnea episodes can vary, but some individuals may experience up to 100 breathing interruptions in a single night. When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to poor-quality sleep, excessive tiredness during the day, an increased risk for heart problems, and various other issues.
Can You Use CBD Oil to Treat Sleep Apnea?
Researchers are looking into the possible use of CBD oil as a treatment for sleep apnea. Some believe that it could potentially lower the chances of the throat muscles collapsing and obstructing the airway. Furthermore, CBD oil may help people fall asleep in less time. This could be beneficial for those who are worried that they aren’t getting enough sleep on a nightly basis.
With all that said, though, further studies are required to confirm whether CBD oil can be considered an effective sleep apnea solution. It’s therefore better to stick to the proven forms of treatment that your sleep dentist currently offers.
What Options Are There for Treating Sleep Apnea?
Traditionally, sleep apnea is treated with a CPAP machine that helps keep the airway clear via a continuous stream of pressurized air. However, some people find that this treatment method is too noisy and/or uncomfortable for them. That’s why your sleep dentist offers oral appliance therapy as an alternative.
An oral appliance for sleep apnea works by repositioning the jaw slightly. This helps ensure that the airway remains clear throughout the night, which can go a long way toward reducing sleep apnea symptoms. Oral appliances tend to work best for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, and they can be used in combination with CPAP machines in certain situations.
The sooner you have sleep apnea addressed, the sooner you can start enjoying the quality sleep that your body needs to function properly during the day. If you think you’re suffering from sleep-disordered breathing, you should have it diagnosed as soon as possible so that you can start exploring your treatment options.
About the Practice
Here at Healthy Sleep Tulsa, our dental sleep specialists are dedicated to helping our patients enjoy better lives by improving the quality of their sleep. We offer different types of oral appliances that can go a long way toward reducing sleep apnea symptoms. To schedule a consultation with our team, visit our website or call (918) 300-4325.