Sleep apnea is a condition that causes one to repetitively stop breathing throughout the night while they sleep. This can result in various negative, serious consequences. They include daytime sleepiness, headaches, difficulty concentrating, loud snoring, and even health problems. There are multiple treatment options available to help those suffering from sleep apnea, but you may be wondering about steps you can take at home to improve your sleep, like essential oils. Continue reading to learn more about essential oils and whether or not they can be helpful for sleep apnea.
Do Essential Oils Help Sleep Apnea?
If you think that you have sleep apnea, it’s very important that you seek help from a sleep dentist. Sleep apnea can have dangerous consequences if it isn’t treated properly. By undergoing a sleep test, you can receive a diagnosis and start the treatment you need to get the quality sleep you require to thrive. That being said, essential oils have been used for thousands of years for many purposes. There isn’t must scientific evidence to support them, but many people swear by their effects on sleep.
Which Essential Oral Can Improve Sleep?
Aromatherapy has recently become a popular way to promote sleep. Here are some of the most common oils used for this purpose:
- Lavender Oil: Studies have shown that lavender oil can positively impact sleep. Study participants who have used it before bed reported more restful sleep with fewer disturbances throughout the night.
- Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil has been shown to reduce the mucus in your sinuses and airways, allowing you to breathe better during sleep.
- Peppermint Oil: A small study has shown that peppermint oil can help people with sleep apnea get more restful sleep and lessen sleep disturbances. There are also claims that peppermint oil can help to improve mood.
How Do You Use Essential Oils?
- Topically: If you are applying an oil topically, it’s important to remember that essential oils are highly concentrated, so they can be harsh on the skin. To avoid irritation, the oil should be diluted in another oil, like coconut oil.
- Inhalation: You can use a diffuser to distribute essential oils into the air. Just remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of essential oils can be harmful.
Alternatively, you can apply a few drops of an essential oil to a hot towel and place it over your nose for a few minutes as you breathe in. You shouldn’t eat or ingest essential oils without consulting your doctor first.
If you think that you have sleep apnea, it is crucial that you seek treatment from a professional. However, in addition to this, some patients find that using essential oils can aid in promoting a good night’s sleep. By working with your sleep dentist, you can put together a treatment plan to best meet your needs.
About the Practice
At Little Rock Family Dental Care, we have an extensive team of skilled dentists serving patients in the Little Rock area. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need at one of our four convenient locations. If you are struggling with sleep apnea, we would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (501) 514-9205.