Does Sleeping in a Recliner Help with Sleep Apnea?

Have you been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? If so, it might seem borderline impossible to get sufficient rest. Repeated interruptions in your breathing can disrupt your sleep cycle, leaving you feeling tired day after day and putting your overall health at risk. What can you do to lessen the impact of your condition? Seeking professional treatment is always a wise choice. However, you might also benefit from some small changes to your lifestyle, such as sleeping in a recliner. How might that help reduce your OSA symptoms? Continue reading below to find out.

Benefits of Sleeping in a Recliner

Sleeping at a slight incline can have significant benefits for many people. For example:

• You might find it easier to breathe. OSA happens because tissues in the throat block the flow of air. If you sleep flat on your back, gravity works against you. Those tissues might be more likely to collapse and cause blockages. In contrast, sleeping at an incline can make gravity work in your favor. Researchers have found that sleeping at an angle between 30 and 60 degrees decreases OSA symptoms in many people.
• Your GERD symptoms may be reduced. Around 60% of people with OSA also struggle with acid reflux. Adjusting your sleeping position so you are at a slight incline might lessen this issue.

Of course, it should be acknowledged that you are not required to sleep in a recliner in order to enjoy the above-listed benefits. A bed wedge or adjustable mattress can produce similar effects.

Do Not Neglect Professional Treatment

Altering your sleep position certainly has the potential to reduce your OSA symptoms. Nevertheless, a comfy chair is not a replacement for appropriate professional care. For instance, an oral appliance from a dentist can help to keep your airway open, and it can be effective regardless of sleeping position. It is also beneficial for times when you are traveling and do not have access to a nice recliner.

Another reason to seek professional care is simply that it is wise to have a qualified team assist you in your journey to better sleep. They can help you understand your condition and offer tailored solutions to help you enjoy higher-quality rest.

Adjusting your sleep position may be just one small step toward improved health. Consult your sleep dentist or healthcare team for additional tips to keep your OSA under control.

Meet Dr. Kenneth Mogell

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is double board-certified in dental sleep medicine. He specializes in providing oral sleep appliance therapy for OSA. He wants every patient to enjoy the benefits of high-quality rest! If you would like to speak to Dr. Mogell and our team about how you can sleep better, contact any of our three locations or call our Vero Beach office at 772-882-6800.