What Is Positional Sleep Apnea?

Positional sleep apnea is a type of sleep apnea in which a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, but it only occurs when they are sleeping in certain positions, such as on their back. This is different from obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep.

The treatment for positional sleep apnea typically involves positional therapy, which is aimed at preventing the individual from sleeping on their back. This can be done through various methods, including:

1. Changing sleeping positions: The individual may be advised to sleep on their side, either by placing a pillow between their knees or using a specialized pillow that encourages side-sleeping.

2. Wearing a positional device: This is a device that is worn on the back or chest and is designed to discourage back-sleeping by providing discomfort or vibration when the individual rolls onto their back.

3. Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and other lifestyle changes can also help improve symptoms of positional sleep apnea.

In some cases, positional sleep apnea may be combined with other types of sleep apnea, such as obstructive sleep apnea. In these cases, the individual may need to use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or other treatments to manage their symptoms. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for an individual's specific situation.