Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep. Three types of sleep apnea exist: central, obstructive and mixed. Obstructive is the most common, resulting from over-relaxation of throat muscles, causing the windpipe to collapse and block the airway. Treatments for sleep apnea range from simple lifestyle changes to surgery. One of the most common non-invasive treatments is the sleep apnea pillow.
A sleep apnea pillow is a pillow that is designed for snorers, since snoring is one of the most common indicators of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea pillows are designed to support the neck, to prevent patients from rolling onto their backs (where snoring and sleep apnea can worsen), to cradle the head, to elongate the neck and keep the tongue from blocking the airway, and to assist side sleepers by relieving pressure on shoulders and arms.
In mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea, use of a specially shaped pillow or shirt may reduce sleep apnea episodes, usually by causing users to sleep on the side instead of on the back or in a reclining position instead of flat.
Several different manufacturers claim their sleep apnea pillows achieve the above objectives, but before goiing for one make sure that the pillow is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and also consult your physician.
Sleep apnea pillow
