Hypnosis isn’t a silly trick that can be used for entertainment at dinner parties. Rather, hypnosis can be used as a form of therapy to treat several conditions, including sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. It can contribute to a variety of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. While there are several treatments available for sleep apnea, including continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, some people find that hypnosis can be a helpful complementary therapy.
How Does Hypnosis Work for Sleep Apnea?
Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation and focused concentration. It can be used to help people relax, change their thoughts and behaviors, and manage pain. Hypnosis may also result in a state of heightened suggestibility. In the context of sleep apnea, hypnosis can be used to:
- Relax the muscles in the throat and airway: This can help to keep the airway open during sleep, reducing the frequency and severity of apneic episodes.
- Change negative thought patterns: People with sleep apnea often worry about their sleep and the health consequences of the disorder. Hypnosis can help to change these negative thought patterns, promoting a more positive and relaxed state of mind.
- Improve sleep hygiene: Hypnosis can be used to help people develop healthy sleep habits, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
What to Expect During a Hypnosis Session for Sleep Apnea
A hypnosis session for sleep apnea typically involves a therapist guiding you into a relaxed state. The therapist will then make suggestions to help you relax your throat muscles, change your thoughts about sleep, and improve your sleep habits.
Is Hypnosis Effective for Sleep Apnea?
There is some evidence to suggest that hypnosis can be effective for improving sleep apnea symptoms. A review published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine screened studies on hypnosis and sleep apnea. The authors of the review found that hypnosis was associated with a positive effect on sleep apnea.
However, it is important to note that hypnosis is not a cure for sleep apnea. It is typically best used as a complementary therapy in conjunction with other treatments, such as CPAP therapy. Your health professionals will be able to determine the best treatment options for you.
Who Can Benefit from Hypnosis for Sleep Apnea?
Hypnosis may be a good option for people with sleep apnea who:
- Are looking for a non-invasive treatment option
- Have difficulty using CPAP therapy
- Want to improve their overall sleep quality
Consult with your doctor to find out whether hypnosis is a good option for treating your sleep apnea.
Additional Tips for Improving Sleep Apnea Symptoms
In addition to hypnosis, there are several other things you can do to improve your sleep apnea symptoms. The following lifestyle factors can affect your sleep apnea:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of sleep apnea.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: Alcohol and smoking can relax the muscles in your throat, making it more likely that you will experience apneic episodes.
- Sleep on your side: Sleeping on your back can worsen sleep apnea.
- Use a nasal strip or nasal dilator: These devices can help to keep your airways open during sleep.
Final Thoughts
Hypnosis can be a helpful complementary therapy for managing sleep apnea symptoms. It can help you relax your throat muscles, change your thoughts about sleep, and improve your sleep habits. If you are interested in trying hypnosis for sleep apnea or simply learning more about it, we invite you to contact us today at Aligned Healing.
