Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide every year. It’s very disruptive to normal resting patterns and can lead to fragmented sleep and various health issues. In the pursuit of an effective treatment, many patients are starting to ask about the potential of CBD (cannabidiol). However, many others hear the term and jump to conclusions about cannabis and “getting high.”
If you want to learn the truth about CBD and how it can help patients with sleep apnea, continue reading.
What Is Sleep Apnea, Exactly?
Before exploring the potential benefits of CBD, it’s important to grasp the basics of sleep apnea. There are two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). OSA is more common and occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much and block the airway. Central sleep apnea happens when the brain fails to send the correct signals to the muscles that control breathing.
How Does CBD Affect Sleep Apnea?
CBD is a natural compound made from the cannabis plant. Unlike its counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce a “high” sensation. Instead, it interacts with the hypothalamus, a small part of the brain that regulates various sleep processes. Here are some of the potential benefits of CBD on sleep-related disorders:
Reducing Anxiety and Stress: CBD is mainly known for its anxiety-reducing properties. Since stress and anxiety can both contribute to sleep apnea episodes, CBD may help by promoting a calmer mental state.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Inflammation in the airways is a strong factor in obstructive sleep apnea. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate this and improve airflow during sleep.
Muscle Relaxation: The compound has muscle relaxant properties, which could help patients with OSA. It can minimize the chances of the throat muscles collapsing during sleep by keeping them more lightly relaxed throughout the night.
Improving Sleep Quality: Finally, CBD has been studied for its impact on sleep quality. By influencing the sleep-wake cycle, it may help patients fall asleep faster, reducing the likelihood of apnea episodes.
Should I Use CBD?
If you’re considering using CBD to manage sleep apnea, it’s important to consult with your healthcare professional or sleep dentist. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and overall health. Additionally, when choosing CBD products, find reputable brands that undergo third-party testing to ensure quality.
While research on CBD’s specific effects on sleep apnea is still in its early stages, initial evidence suggests that it may offer potential benefits. As with any alternative approach to treatment, it’s best to proceed with caution. If you’re dealing with sleep apnea, discussing your symptoms with your sleep dentist is still the best initial step forward.
About the Author
If you’re looking for a caring and talented sleep dentist to help with your sleep apnea in Baytown, look no further than Dr. Dean Hutto. After earning his dental doctorate, he began study at the most renowned dental institutions in the world including the Seattle Insitute, and the Dawson Academy. He’s an expert at treating sleep disorders through quality dentistry. Call (281) 422-8248 to schedule a sleep apnea consultation at Sleep Better Baytown, or visit the website to learn more.