Complementary and Alternative Methods of Treating Sleep Apnea

According to the Mayo Clinic website, most alternative medicines for sleep apnea have not been well-studied. In most cases, particularly with obstructive sleep apnea, which involves an individual who stops breathing during snoring (and is the most common type of sleep apnea), self care may be the best route to take. Central sleep apnea is when an individual stops breathing because their brain does not send the signal out to continue breathing. The first step in self-care is to lose weight. This will mostly help individuals who have obstructive sleep apnea and tend to have a problem with snoring. Even a slight weight loss will help relieve restriction on the throat. In rare cases, sleep apnea has been completely cured for individuals who returned to a normal weight.

Lifestyle and sleep changes may also be helpful to someone who is trying to make sleep apnea better. For example, the avoidance of alcoholic beverages and tranquilizing medications, including sleeping pills, may help reduce symptoms of sleep apnea. When taking these types of medications, the muscles in the back of the throat may relax more, which can cause snoring or issues sleep apnea symptoms. Sleeping on one's side or stomach, rather than on the back may also help individuals snore less. Individuals who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea should make sure they are keeping nasal passages open and clear, if possible, at night.

Revolution Health recommends using alternative treatments, such as massage, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, relaxation techniques and herbal remedies to help reduce symptoms of sleep apnea. For individuals having trouble sleeping, herbal baths, herbal teas and infusions can be helpful. Hops and valerian root can be taken as a supplement to aid with sleep. Chamomile and lavender teas can be extremely relaxing and can be drunk as a tea or used in bathwater as a relaxant or aromatherapy just before bed. Lavender oil works as a natural muscle relaxant and can be lightly massaged into tight muscles to help reduce muscle spasms, tightness and pain. Finally, passionflower herb can be taken as a supplement just before bed to help relax a tense individual. As always, individuals who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or are taking other medications should first speak with their doctor regarding supplements and herbs they wish to take to ensure that these herbs are safe to be taken with their medication and conditions.