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Archive for March, 2009

Do you believe that you can actually get some relief from snoring and once again enjoy a good night’s sleep simply by using a special pillow for snoring ?  It might seem like too much to ask but in reality these specially designed pillows can offer a tremendous amount of relief no matter your sleeping position and no matter how loud or excessive your snoring.  You may think that a pillow for snoring only works for someone that sleeps on his or her back but there are many new models available today that are perfect for side sleepers as well.

A special pillow for snoring is normally made from a sturdy foam that supports the head and neck keeping them properly aligned.  This will mean that the jaw is less likely to fall open and a person is less likely to breathe through their mouth.  Since breathing through the mouth leads to snoring, this type of pillow can cut down on snoring incidents.  A pillow for snoring typically has a lip or indentation on one or two sides, but many today also have a slight slope in front of that indentation so that the entire upper body is properly supported.  This means that even someone that doesn't snore but that has tension in the shoulders or neck can benefit from a pillow for snoring.  Even people that have constant back problems get relief when using this kind of pillow.

The 'U' shape pillow design is another popular choice.  This is meant for those who want to sleep on their side as both sides of the pillow cradle and nestle the body between them, giving support for the front and the back.  Using this type of pillow for snoring will mean that a person won’t collapse onto their stomach but won’t roll onto their back either.  Also, even people with back issues, have said that there is a decrease in the amount of pain using this type of pillow.  Since the front of the body is supported, the back doesn’t need to work overtime to keep it supported and upright.  So whether it’s actually snoring that’s your concern or if you have general aches and pains, you may want to consider a pillow for snoring so you can get a good night’s rest too!

If you have sleep apnea or for whatever reason are in the market for used CPAP machines, you of course can save some money by purchasing a piece of equipment from a private seller.  However, as with anything else that you may buy secondhand, you do want to be careful of a few things before purchasing.  If you want to buy a used CPAP machine, here are a few tips.

Remember that when using any breathing machine, you’re going to need to have a professional show you exactly how to adjust the settings.  If you’re looking at used CPAP machines this means you’ll probably be purchasing from a private seller who may or may not be able to show you the proper adjustment of this machine.  Remember that too much oxygen pressure is not good for your lungs and too little oxygen defeats the purpose of the machine in the first place.  While you may assume that you can figure the machine on your own or that the private seller of any used CPAP machines can show you how to use it properly, don’t take this for granted.  CPAP machines are pieces of medical equipment like anything else but of course are more complicated than just a pair of crutches or an Ace bandage. 

You have to make sure that the used CPAP machine is in perfect working order – you don’t want any leakages because of faulty sealing or such like.  If the hoses or any of the sealants are loose or leaking, you’re not getting enough oxygen.  Again, this defeats the entire purpose of using the machine in the first place.  It’s imperative that used CPAP machines be examined carefully and thoroughly just as you would a used car or any other complicated piece of machinery that you might purchase secondhand.

In theory there’s no harm in purchasing a used CPAP machine.  You can save literally hundreds of dollars by purchasing something secondhand and usually those machines last so long that they’ll work well for years.  Typically you can find used CPAP machines on eBay and other online sites, or can ask your own doctor for a recommendation.  He or she may know of a place that sells items that are used and that can save you some money in the long run; never be afraid to talk to your doctor about this subject.

Many people who snore have found great relief with the use of a snoring mouth guard, a small oral appliance that you wear during sleep that helps to keep your mouth in place so that you’ll snore much less.  This is something to consider not just for your own health and ability to sleep but for anyone that might be in the same room as you!  Let’s take a closer look at how a snoring mouth guard works and how you can get one for yourself.

Usually a snoring mouth guard looks a lot like the type of mouth guard that a professional athlete might wear.  They fit comfortably in the mouth and work to very gently keep the jaw pushed forward.  This helps to keep the mouth from falling open during sleep so you’ll be less likely to breathe through your mouth, which in turn will cut down on how much you snore.  {The mouth often does not keep the alignment that it’s supposed to have during sleep and often this misalignment can cause snoring.}  Everything in the mouth has a tendency to relax during sleep which can be prevented with a snoring mouth guard.

While it might sound strange to be sleeping with a snoring mouth guard, they’re typically very comfortable and some report that they actually relieve some pain and tension in the jaw.  This guard allows the mouth to “lean” against it and relaxes the muscles so they do not get too tense.  Since everything is in proper alignment the muscles of the jaw are less likely to be overused or overextended.

Usually a snoring mouth guard needs to be fitted by your doctor since it needs to fit your mouth exactly.  One that is too loose will not do its job and one that is too tight will be uncomfortable.  You can ask your dentist also to take your size and make a customized snoring mouth guard for you.

While insurance coverage may not be available for purchase of a snoring mouth guard, users report that the money is well spent.  Proper and consistent use can potentially lead to reduced pain and a higher quality of sleep.  If you’re a snorer, for your sake, as well as those in your household, consider this and talk with your physician or dental expert about it.