Can a Weighted Blanket Treat My Sleep Apnea?

Weighted blankets have gained significant popularity in recent years, especially among those who want to improve the quality of their sleep and find relief from nighttime anxiety. These blankets create a sensation that many find soothing, leading some individuals to wonder whether they could help with more serious sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea. In this blog post, you will learn about some of the benefits of weighted blankets and discover whether they can really help individuals with sleep apnea.

What Is a Weighted Blanket?

A weighted blanket is designed to be heavier than a standard blanket, typically containing materials such as glass beads or plastic pellets. The added weight provides gentle, even pressure across the body, creating a sensation similar to being hugged or swaddled. This pressure is often described as deep touch stimulation, which can foster feelings of security and calmness. Many people find that using a weighted blanket helps them relax and mentally prepare for bedtime.

Benefits of Weighted Blankets

People who use weighted blankets may experience a broad range of benefits, including:

· Deep touch pressure can help calm the nervous system and promote relaxation.

· The comforting weight may help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety at night.

· Some individuals experience improved sleep quality, falling asleep faster and maintaining sleep throughout the night.

· Weighted blankets may support restful sleep for those struggling with insomnia or nighttime restlessness.

· The stimulation from the blanket can encourage the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with positive mood and well-being.

· For people with sensory processing difficulties, weighted blankets may help minimize restlessness and foster greater stillness at bedtime.

Are Weighted Blankets Able to Treat Sleep Apnea?

Although weighted blankets provide a range of benefits for sleep and relaxation, it is important to recognize their limitations regarding sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a medical condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses may result from anatomical factors, excess body fat, or other underlying causes. Because weighted blankets do not address the root causes of sleep apnea, they are not suitable replacements for medical intervention.

If you suspect that you have sleep apnea — for example, if you notice loud snoring or your partner says you sometimes stop breathing during the night — it is essential to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. Only a trained professional can accurately diagnose sleep apnea and recommend appropriate treatments. Effective options include custom oral appliances provided by a dentist, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, or surgical interventions in the most severe cases.

There is certainly nothing wrong with using a weighted blanket. It may help you feel cozy and allow you to fall asleep faster, but do not try to use it as a replacement for your sleep apnea treatment!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Jonathan Held is a highly skilled dentist who was taken over 800 hours of continuing education in the field of sleep medicine. He provides custom oral appliances for patients in Sedona, Flagstaff, Prescott Valley, and Kingman. If you are struggling with poor quality sleep, he and our team can advise you on your next steps. Contact us at 928-227-3024.