This article was recently sent to me and I htought it had some good info regarding sleep apnea. The only people I know that have cured their apnea changed their diets, excercised and lost weight - most cases (not all) are in overweight people.
Anyway, here is the article:
Sleep Apnea
A condition I've been seeing more frequently in my practice now than ever before is that of obstructive sleep apnea. When a healthy person falls asleep, throat muscles naturally relax. In a healthy person, this should not create any obstruction. In persons suffering obstructive sleep apnea, the tissues tend to collapse or narrow the airway, thus reducing airflow. This can happen for a variety of reasons. One reason rarely looked at by sleep clinics, is that of allergy. If a person consistently consumes foods they’re sensitive to, they can get swelling of tissues of their sinuses and throat, reducing t he airway diameter.
In digestive disorders, the tongue can be used to identify imbalances of bacteria, hydration, acid levels, enzyme function, and pH.. Evaluating tongue health can identify anemia, cyanosis, and jaundice. Since the tongue is involved in snoring and sleep apnea, ignoring digestive function when treating sleep apnea could be ignoring cause and going after only the effect. Before getting rigged to sleep like “Darth Vader” I would first investigate digestive function.
The tongue and surrounding tissues of the throat are subject to effects of thiamine deficiency as seen in beriberi. In this condition there is a swelling of tissue which occurs. This can narrow the throat and trachea, impeding air transport. When considering the increased role of refined grains in our society and their ability to deplete essential B vitamins, the addition of a whole food B vitamin in sleep apnea should be considered before going to any drastic measures. This could save you a bundle and make for much more refreshing sleep.
Systemic infections can induce sleep apnea. High levels of certain immune factors have been found present in people with sleep apnea, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Elevated levels of TNF-alpha can cause fatigue. With this in mind, immune support using elements like Echinacea containing high levels of alkalamide s and other immune strengthening herbs may have a dynamic impact on removing infections which could trigger sleep apnea.
Frequent interruptions in breathing means frequent drops in oxygen levels. Reduced sleep quality triggers the release of stress hormones. These compounds raise the heart rate and increase risk of stroke. Elevated stress hormones also raise the risk of, and worsen fatigue.
With this information, it makes sense to treat sleep apnea. Most importantly is how you go about treating it. Work at getting rid of the cause first. Evaluate allergies, correct digestion, balance B vitamins, and identify, reduce and remove infections. A healthy system doesn't experience sleep apnea. Sweet Dreams!
Dr John A. Briggs N.D.
20 N.E. Lillich St.
Clatskanie, Or 97016
503-728-4732