Every night, millions of people miss out on countless hours of sleep due to sleep apnea; in fact, it’s estimated that the condition affects up to 9% of all adults in the US, with many more cases remaining completely undiagnosed. That said, affected patients often wonder if there is anything they can do to manage their condition outside of professional treatment. Recently, certain essential oils have emerged as potential solutions for managing some sleep apnea symptoms. Here’s a closer look at the condition and which oils might prove helpful.
A Closer Look at Sleep Apnea
To put it simply, sleep apnea is a condition that causes patients to wake up multiple times throughout the night due to disruptions to their breathing patterns. These pauses can last anywhere from 10 seconds to a minute and can occur hundreds of times throughout the night, leading to compounded sleep loss and a laundry list of health issues such as an increased risk of stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and more—daytime fatigue is far from the only issue!
Essential Oils That Can Assist with Sleep Apnea Symptoms
When you have sleep apnea, identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward receiving treatment. Some common and effective solutions include CPAP machines, which force oxygen into the lungs via gentle, continuous airflow, and oral appliance therapy, which utilizes customized mouthguards to keep the airway open during nighttime.
However, many patients wonder if there are any at-home remedies they can utilize to manage their symptoms, and certain essential oils are useful here. A few noteworthy examples include:
Peppermint Oil
Studies show that peppermint oil can improve the way your brain functions and boost your mood, which can translate into more restful sleep and fewer disturbances. It also has purifying effects that can help to clear the sinuses and make breathing easier.
Lavender Oil
This is one of the most commonly used oils for treating insomnia, as it promotes relaxation and triggers the release of melatonin, the hormone responsible for helping you fall asleep.
Eucalyptus Oil
Research shows that eucalyptus can help break up mucus in your respiratory system, including within the throat and sinuses, in addition to relieving symptoms related to asthma and bronchitis.
Lemon Oil
The fresh citrus scent of lemon oil has been shown to improve one’s mood and sense of well-being, in addition to dispelling feelings of anxiety.
Clove Oil
Clove is an herb with a variety of medicinal uses, one of which includes loosening the phlegm and mucus buildup in the chest that is sometimes responsible for obstruction of the airway.
Of course, it goes without saying that seeking professional sleep apnea treatment will always be the best option for relieving your symptoms, regardless of how useful these essential oils might seem. That said, don’t hesitate to contact your provider if you’re unable to get a good night’s rest—sleep apnea isn’t something that you should have to live with!
About the Practice
The talented team at Exceptional Dentistry is thrilled to provide patients and families in Silver Spring, MD with an unmatched level of care! Under the leadership of Dr. Sara Saba, the practice is proud to offer a wide range of services including various forms of sleep apnea therapy to assist those who’re unable to achieve optimal rest. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for you or a loved one, don’t hesitate to contact the practice online or by phone today! Telephone: (301) 460-3331.