Research has shown that acupuncture is an effective alternative for patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and is a valid substitute for CPAP machines.
It is exciting research, especially for patients who are seeking alternative treatment options. Many patients struggle with CPAP machines finding them uncomfortable to manage. Acupuncturists in Gainesville, Florida, are offering it to patients to help manage their OSA.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when a person does not breathe normally when they are asleep. When there is a pause in the breathing cycle, the brain will send a message to start breathing again. You may wake up briefly when this happens but often will not remember.
People with OSA may snore loudly or make choking sounds when they sleep. They often do not know unless another person tells them, so sometimes OSA can go undiagnosed, especially if they live alone. Usually, people with OSA end up feeling fatigued during the day because of being woken several times during the night with the signal to breathe.
There are a few important symptoms of sleep apnea, including:
- Interrupted breathing during the night where breathing stops and starts again
- Gasping for air when breathing
- Loud snoring
- Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Feeling sleepy during the day
- Feeling irritable
- Getting up often during the night
How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed and Treated?
Sleep apnea is diagnosed through a sleep study. Patients spend the night in a sleep study center where their breathing and heartbeat are monitored. Doctors are looking for breaks and pauses in breathing and analyzing how snoring is affecting sleep quality.
Generally, sleep apnea is treated with CPAP machines. CPAP machines can help patients to stop snoring, allowing the patient to get restful sleep. CPAP machines also reduce the risk of OSA-associated diseases and disorders, including heart disease.
But there are some side effects in regards to CPAP machines. Some patients experience gas or bloating. The mask and device can be uncomfortable. Also, the noise of the machine can be bothersome to the partner of the patient.
How Does Acupuncture Help With Sleep Apnea?
Acupuncture is an alternative treatment option for patients with OSA. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, the spleen and the stomach transform nutrients from food and fluids into energy.
Sleep apnea is thought to be related to phlegm and QI (life energy) stagnation. If phlegm builds and becomes stagnant in the spleen, the lungs do not get the energy they need.
Acupuncturists can also address snoring. They may also combine the treatment to address sweating and waking up during the night, as these are signs of increased heat and toxicity in the body.
Acupuncturists will evaluate symptoms to create the best treatment course. The goal is to improve oxygen levels and improve breathing.
Are You Looking for Chinese Medicine in Gainesville, FL to Help You on Your Wellness Path
Guan Physical Therapy and Acupuncture is here to help you if you have been diagnosed with OSA but would like to learn more about alternative treatment options.
If you are looking for a safe, effective way to treat chronic conditions, then we are the clinic you have been searching for.
Not only do we offer Chinese medicine and treatments but De. Weiwei Guan is also a physical therapist in Gainesville. Her knowledge and expertise in treating and healing the human body are what make us stand above the rest.
We can also help address these common ailments and conditions:
- acupuncture for back pain
- acupuncture for knee pain,
- acupuncture for neck pain
- acupuncture for insomnia
We would appreciate the opportunity to address any questions you may have or help you schedule an appointment. Contact us today!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
