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Tom's Guide
a day ago
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Blowing into a conch could be new, accessible treatment for sleep apnea, says research
An ancient ritual that involves blowing air into a conch shell could be a new method for treating the common sleep condition obstructive sleep apnea, new research has found. Drawing from the yogic ritual of 'shankh blowing', this method encourages a practitioner to inhale deeply and exhale forcefully into a spiral conch shell. Research suggests regularly practicing shankh blowing could ease symptoms of mild to moderate sleep apnea, a condition that impact millions of people worldwide and is characterized by disrupted breathing during the night. During the study, 16 participants were provided with a traditional shankh (conch shell) and trained to use it properly. The remaining 14 were instructed to follow deep breathing methods. Both groups were asked to practice for at least 15 minutes, five days a week. At the end of a six month period, those using the shankh method reported a greater reduction in daytime sleepiness (a common symptom of sleep apnea) compared to those in the control group. Those in the intervention group also reported better sleep quality and researchers noted an improvement in objective sleep apnea measures, such as oxygen saturation. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Researchers behind the study suggest that shankh blowing provides "respiratory muscle training" that could lessen the impact of OSA from collapsing airways. "The way the shankh is blown is quite distinctive," Dr. Krishna K Sharma, lead researcher, explained to MedicalXpress. "This action creates strong vibrations and airflow resistance, which likely strengthens the muscles of the upper airway, including the throat and soft palate — areas that often collapse during sleep in people with OSA." This isn't the first out-of-the-box approach to sleep apnea treatment that's proven to have viability. A study from 2006 found that frequently practicing the didgeridoo could lessen sleep apnea symptoms in mild to moderate cases. Researchers similarly theorized that playing the didgeridoo trained the upper airways, decreasing their "collapsibility." While this new research is certainly intriguing (and eye-catching) the small study requires further research before your doctor is likely to start prescribing a conch shell. With sleep apnea among the most common sleep disorders worldwide, various methods to ease diagnosis and treatment have been developed. Among the most common sleep apnea treatment methods are: The 'gold standard' of sleep apnea treatment, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines (better known as CPAP machines) are masks that fit over the nose and mouth to provide a steady flow of air. CPAP machines are the most effective form of sleep apnea treatment and are often used to treat moderate to severe cases. However, the bulky masks do have their disadvantages, as users can find them uncomfortable to sleep with. For that reason, many experts are looking for a solution as effective as CPAP but without the associated discomfort. Mouthguards for sleep apnea help hold the airway open to improve airflow and reduce sleep apnea incidents. The most effective mouthguards for treating sleep apnea are typically customized to fit your mouth, although over the counter mouthguards are also available and can be easier to access. Mouthguards are often considered more comfortable than CPAP machines. However, they aren't suitable for some with dentures and other dental issues. Lifestyle changes are often recommend as a way to address the root cause of sleep apnea, often alongside other forms of treatment. Those with sleep apnea are advised to quit smoking, while reducing alcohol consumption can also limit the frequency of airway collapse. Weight loss is another commonly recommended lifestyle change for sleep apnea, as heavier individuals typically have excess tissue in the back of the throat, increasing the risk of the airway becoming blocked in the night. If you suspect you are experiencing sleep apnea, we suggest speaking to a healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan that works for you. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
RTÉ News
2 days ago
- Health
- RTÉ News
The Sleep Revolution: From badge of exhaustion to badge of honour
Susan Stone is the creator and presenter of It's a Jungle, exploring the people, science, and ideas shaping our health and wellbeing. Here she explores the booming industry of sleep. My journey across three continents taught me that everything starts with sleep. When I first stepped into the wellness space, I thought I understood health. I focused on nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness—the usual suspects. But the deeper I dove, the more one truth became undeniable: if you're not sleeping, nothing works. That realisation sent me down a rabbit hole that would take me from San Diego to Miami to London, exploring the world of sleep innovation and discovering why sleep might finally be getting the recognition it deserves. With approximately two billion people worldwide affected by sleep disorders out of a global population of 8 billion, the potential impact of this sleep revolution extends far beyond wellness trends—it's a global health imperative. Ireland's sleep challenges aren't unique—Japan averages just six hours and six minutes nightly, while cultural sleep debt affects billions worldwide. The Foundation: Eat, Move, Sleep, Connect We've all heard the mantra about eating well and moving more, but I've come to believe the order matters. Sleep isn't just another pillar of health—it's the foundation everything else is built on. Without quality sleep, even the best nutrition and exercise routines fall short. This understanding led me to seek out the companies and experts who are revolutionising how we approach sleep health. San Diego: Learning from the Sleep Giants My first stop was ResMed in San Diego, arguably the world's biggest sleep company. During my time exploring their approach, I learned just how sophisticated sleep medicine has become, particularly around obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, affecting nearly 1 billion adults worldwide. ResMed specialises in CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) devices, which deliver pressurised air through a mask to keep airways open during sleep. Traditionally, these machines were bulky, noisy contraptions that many patients abandoned within months. Watch: It's a Jungle speaks with Charles from ResMed about sleep apnea What struck me most was their philosophy about creating tech that people love. When I had the opportunity to experience one of their latest OSA CPAP devices, it felt surprisingly comfortable—almost enhancing, if that's possible. The modern devices are whisper-quiet, compact enough to sit discreetly on a bedside table, and use masks that feel more like a comfortable sleep accessory than medical equipment. This technology is readily available in Ireland through sleep clinics and the HSE, though waiting lists can be lengthy. The shift represents something profound: medical technology companies are no longer focused on just clinical effectiveness—they're prioritising user experience and long-term adherence. Miami: The Don't Die Summit and Sleep Optimisation From San Diego, I headed to Miami for Bryan Johnson's Don't Die Summit. Johnson, a 47-year-old tech entrepreneur who sold his company, Braintree, for $800 million, has become a controversial figure in the longevity space by spending over $2 million annually on antiaging protocols. His extreme approach—calling himself a "professional sleeper" and treating sleep as priority number one above work and social obligations— illustrated just how far some people are willing to go in pursuit of perfect sleep. Johnson aims for exactly eight hours of sleep nightly, going to bed at the same time every evening and waking without an alarm. His methodical tracking of every sleep metric, obsessive consistency with bedtime and wake times, and meticulous light exposure regulation showed what happens when someone applies Silicon Valley optimisation thinking to sleep. Johnson's pursuit of "perfect sleep scores" through devices like WHOOP and Oura Ring demonstrated the growing appetite for data-driven sleep improvement. While research supports the importance of consistent sleep schedules and 7-9 hours nightly for most adults, Johnson's extreme protocols go far beyond what sleep scientists typically recommend. His approach is far more extreme than most people may want or perhaps need, but the summit highlighted an important shift: sleep optimisation has moved from fringe biohacking into broader wellness conversations. London: The Wearable Revolution with Oura My final stop was London, where I had the opportunity to speak with Dor Kilroy, Oura's Chief Commercial Officer. Dor, an Irish native now based in the US, was particularly passionate about how their ring technology can advance women's health understanding through accessible sleep data. "Our data shows that Irish Oura members have, on average, lower sleep scores than their UK and US counterparts," Kilroy revealed, suggesting there's particular room for improvement in Ireland's sleep habits. Watch: It's a Jungle speaks with Dor Kilroy about a sleep study conducted on 100k women But what exactly are the gaps in women's health understanding? Historically, medical research has been heavily male-focused, leaving women with limited data about how hormonal cycles, pregnancy, and menopause affect sleep patterns. Oura's technology tracks body temperature variations, heart rate variability, and sleep stages—data that can reveal ovulation patterns, early pregnancy signs, and menopausal transitions. Their approach to sleep tracking fascinated me. The ring isn't just a measurement device—it's designed to be a conversation starter that gets people talking about sleep and wearable tech. Kilroy explained that many users bring their sleep data to doctors' appointments, opening discussions that might never have happened otherwise. This focus on women's health is particularly crucial during life transitions —from pregnancy tracking to perimenopause support—addressing health gaps that have historically left women with limited data about their own bodies. I started using the Oura ring myself, and I've found something unexpectedly reassuring about consistently checking my sleep data each morning. What's particularly practical is that the ring only needs charging once a week and is so comfortable I forget I'm wearing it. It creates a feedback loop that matches how I'm feeling with objective data, and it feels like an accessible starting point before diving into more complicated health metrics. The Cultural Shift: Sleep as a Badge of Honour Perhaps the most significant change I've witnessed is cultural. We're moving away from the old paradigm where saying "I only got three hours of sleep" was somehow a badge of honour—a symbol of how hard we're working, or how important we are. Instead, we're entering an era where getting enough quality sleep is the new badge of honour. It signals that you understand optimisation, that you're playing the long game, and that you're serious about peak performance. Why This Matters Now The stakes are tangible: sleep scientist Dr. Cheri Mah's research shows that just 15 minutes more sleep each night can be the difference between an A and a B grade for students. The health implications are equally stark—just one night of four hours of sleep can reduce cancer-fighting immune cells by 70%. Small, consistent improvements in sleep translate directly into sharper minds and better performance. What excites me most about this journey is seeing how both ResMed and Oura are pushing boundaries in two crucial areas. First, they're developing products that consumers genuinely love using. Gone are the days of clunky medical devices or uncomfortable tracking technology. These companies understand that the best health technology is the kind people actually want to engage with daily. Second, they're proactively looking at how they can better serve women through the data they're gathering. This focus on previously underserved populations in sleep medicine is both encouraging and long overdue. The Data Revolution: Just the Beginning We're living in an unprecedented time for sleep health, and we're only at the very beginning of understanding what this wealth of personal data can tell us. The amount of data and insights available to everyday consumers would have been unimaginable just a decade ago. Companies are developing products that don't just measure sleep—they interpret it, providing actionable insights that help us understand what affects our sleep and how to improve it. What's particularly powerful about these wearables is their ability to reveal trends over time rather than fixating on individual nights. While wearables are about 75% accurate compared to lab equipment, sleep scientists emphasise that tracking trends over time matters more than perfect precision. A poor sleep score on a single evening might be due to countless factors, but patterns emerging over weeks and months can reveal genuine insights about your health, stress levels, and lifestyle choices. This data is already proving valuable—many users report bringing their sleep trends to medical appointments, giving doctors a clearer picture of their health patterns. But we're still in the early stages of realising the full potential of this information. Watch: It's a Jungle speaks with Charles from ResMed about AI and sleep Sleep tracking may evolve into early diagnosis tools—changes in sleep patterns can begin in our 30s, years before obvious symptoms of conditions like dementia appear. As artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to advance, the insights derived from our sleep data will become exponentially more valuable and personalised. This democratisation of sleep science means we can all become more proactive about our health, making informed decisions based on trends and patterns rather than guesswork. The real value lies not in perfect scores, but in understanding your personal baselines and using that knowledge to make meaningful improvements to your wellbeing. Looking Forward My journey through the sleep health landscape has convinced me that we're at an inflection point. Sleep is finally being recognised not as time lost to productivity, but as the foundation that makes everything else possible. Whether it's ResMed's innovative medical devices helping people with sleep disorders breathe easier, Oura's elegant tracking technology making sleep data accessible, or the broader cultural shift towards sleep optimisation, we're witnessing the beginning of a sleep revolution. The companies that will succeed in this space aren't just those with the best technology—they're those that understand that great health tech must be technology that people love to use. Watch: It's a Jungle speaks with Dor Kilroy about sleep and alcohol Perhaps the simplest place to start this sleep revolution? Get morning light. As ResMed experts emphasise, this single habit tells your body it's time to start the day—and sets the stage for better sleep that night. The bottom line: If you want to optimise your health, start with sleep. Everything else builds from there.
BBC News
25-07-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Sleep apnoea device 'life-changing', patient says
One morning at the beginning of June, Alison Eastwood woke up and "the whole world seemed clearer and brighter".It was the first night the 52-year-old had spent on a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, having been diagnosed with sleep apnoea after a decade of ill Eastwood from Slaithwaite, Huddersfield, had spent the past decade bed-bound, suffering with a series of health conditions including a kidney infection and had seen countless doctors, spent two years in treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome and had resigned herself to "living life as a disabled person", managing to work part time from home. "I thought there was no help left," she said."I was at the doctors for an unrelated issue. My doctor asked whether I snored and whether I stopped breathing in my sleep, which I thought were odd questions and I said no to both."I didn't think I had any issues with sleep, except I couldn't stop sleeping."After undergoing a sleep study she was diagnosed with sleep apnoea - a condition in which a person temporarily stops breathing while they are asleep and which can lead to serious health Eastwood was given a CPAP machine, which blows air through a mask keeping the airway open during sleep – and said her life changed dramatically."I've been looking at the world through a very exhausted fog for a very long time and with one night on the machine I knew that something had changed," she said."Colours just looked brighter and I actually felt like my brain had rested for the first time in a very long time." Ms Eastwood said she now wants to raise awareness of the condition to try to help others suffering from fatigue."We spend a third of our lives asleep and it has some really important functions, especially repairing the body, so if you have physical conditions you need to be having a good sleep for the body to repair itself," she said. Ms Eastwood's GP, Louise Oliver, who is also a functional breathing practitioner, recommended her for the sleep said 85% of people with the condition are undiagnosed."Over the past four to five years I started asking patients specifically do you snore, do you stop breathing during sleep and having a low threshold to refer someone for a sleep study," she said."I've just seen this hidden epidemic and I've also seen how when people improve how they breathe when they get treated for obstructive sleep apnoea."With Alison I think we caught her at the good outcome. Some people, unfortunately, don't tolerate the treatment and there is a dropout rate with treatments so actually we need more research into how we can make the treatment more successful for people."For Ms Eastwood, the diagnosis and treatment have given her a future she did not expect to have."I forgot how it felt to be well. I now have energy to spare. It feels like everything is flowing again," she said."My anxiety levels have dropped, I feel calmer, I can think clearly and I feel like I want to move. My body wants to move. It's life changing."It feels like I've been given another chance to enjoy life." Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
Borneo Post
20-06-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Bintulu toddler Gonzalez Yiu just short of RM50,000 for life-saving second liver transplant in China
Gonzalez and Viviana are seen at UMMC in Kuala Lumpur while waiting for sufficient funds for the critical liver transplant. SIBU (June 20): A fundraising campaign to enable Bintulu toddler Gonzalez Yiu to undergo a critical second liver transplant in China needs less than RM50,000 more to achieve its target of RM231,930. His mother Viviana Thomas said as of yesterday, the campaign had collected RM183,287.25 to support the surgery and treatment at Renji Hospital in Shanghai. Gonzalez is battling Type II autoimmune hepatitis and end-stage liver disease. Viviana appealed for help to raise the remaining RM48,642.75 for her son —who has been battling the illness since he was six months old — to receive the life-saving treatment. 'Every passing day is critical for Gonzalez. We truly appreciate every donation and prayer from the public,' she said when contacted today. She also shared the family's heartfelt gratitude for the support and compassion shown by the public throughout the campaign. The total amount includes a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine worth RM6,930 to help Gonzalez, who is one year and 11 months old, breathe steadily before and after the surgery in China. For now, Gonzalez remains under monitoring at the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) in Kuala Lumpur, while waiting for sufficient funds and assistance from the Biliary Atresia Malaysia Association (BAMA) to manage documentation and obtain Ethical Approval. Those wishing to help ease the family's burden can channel donations through Yayasan Nanyang Press (OCBC Bank 701-120679-6) with the reference Gonzalez Yiu. Donors who require tax exemption receipts can complete the online form and upload proof of payment via: On May 22, Viviana told Utusan Borneo the family was left with no choice but to appeal to the public for help as their savings had been exhausted on essential needs, treatments, and repeated hospital trips. The youngest of two siblings, Gonzalez underwent his first liver transplant in March last year, but suffered serious complications when the new liver —donated by his mother — began to fail. For the second transplant, Gonzalez's father Yiu Kuok Ling will donate part of his liver. For further information, contact Viviana on 010-7661816. Related report: Gonzalez Yiu lead liver transplant Renji Hospital Viviana Thomas
Sustainability Times
11-06-2025
- Health
- Sustainability Times
'Revolutionary Oral Treatment Shocks Experts': This New Sleep Apnea Remedy Slashes Respiratory Arrests by 56% Without a Maskatory Arrests by 56% Without a Mask
IN A NUTSHELL 🌟 AD109 is a new oral treatment that shows promise in reducing sleep apnea episodes without the use of CPAP machines. is a new oral treatment that shows promise in reducing sleep apnea episodes without the use of CPAP machines. 🔬 The medication combines atomoxetine and aroxybutynin to strengthen airway muscles, significantly lowering the frequency of respiratory interruptions. and to strengthen airway muscles, significantly lowering the frequency of respiratory interruptions. 📊 In clinical trials, patients experienced a 56% reduction in obstructive events and improved oxygen levels compared to a placebo. in obstructive events and improved oxygen levels compared to a placebo. 🚀 This innovation could mark a shift towards personalized medicine in sleep disorder treatment, offering a more convenient and effective solution for patients. Imagine a world where a simple pill can replace the cumbersome night masks for those suffering from sleep apnea. This vision is becoming a reality thanks to groundbreaking research and drug development in the field of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A recent clinical trial has demonstrated the efficacy of a novel oral treatment, marking a significant shift in how we approach this common yet debilitating condition. This article delves into the potential of this new treatment and its implications for millions of people affected by OSA. Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Challenges Sleep apnea is a serious disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, or apneas, can lead to reduced oxygen levels, frequent awakenings, and increased risk for heart disease and stroke. Traditionally, the primary treatment for sleep apnea has been the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. Although effective, many patients find it uncomfortable and difficult to adhere to. As a result, compliance rates are disappointingly low, leaving many without proper treatment. In recent years, the search for alternatives has intensified. The need for a more convenient and less invasive treatment option has never been greater. The emergence of a new oral medication offers hope for those who struggle with the burdens of CPAP therapy. By targeting the underlying causes of airway collapse, this medication could provide a much-needed solution to those seeking relief from the nightly struggles of sleep apnea. Longest-Range Drone Ship in History: UK's New 8,500-Mile Vessel Stuns Military Analysts With Unprecedented Unmanned Capabilities The Breakthrough Oral Treatment: AD109 The new treatment, known as AD109, combines two well-known drugs: atomoxetine and aroxybutynin. Atomoxetine is traditionally used to treat ADHD, while aroxybutynin is employed for bladder overactivity. Together, these medications strengthen the muscles of the upper airway, particularly the genioglossus muscle, which plays a crucial role in keeping the airway open during sleep. This innovative combination has demonstrated a remarkable ability to reduce apnea episodes and improve oxygen levels in patients. In a large-scale trial involving 646 patients, those treated with AD109 experienced a 56% reduction in obstructive events compared to the placebo group. Moreover, 22% of participants achieved near-complete control of their condition, with fewer than five apneas per hour. These results suggest that AD109 could revolutionize the management of sleep apnea, offering an effective and non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments. 'Japan Traps the Impossible': Scientists Develop Breakthrough Method to Extract Ammonia From Air and Water With Unmatched Precision Potential Benefits and Concerns The potential benefits of this treatment extend beyond symptom relief. By providing a more convenient and tolerable option, AD109 could improve patient adherence and overall health outcomes. The possibility of avoiding the discomfort and inconvenience of CPAP machines is a significant advantage for many patients. However, as with any new treatment, there are concerns that must be addressed. Some potential side effects, particularly those associated with atomoxetine, such as increased blood pressure and less restorative sleep, warrant careful monitoring. Long-term safety data is also necessary to ensure the continued well-being of patients. Despite these concerns, the excitement surrounding AD109 is palpable among researchers and clinicians, who are eager to see its impact on the future of sleep medicine. Scientists Stumble Onto Miracle Material That Instantly Harvests Drinking Water from Air With Zero Energy or Filters The Future of Sleep Medicine As we stand on the brink of a new era in sleep medicine, the implications of AD109 are profound. This breakthrough could signify a shift towards personalized medicine in the treatment of sleep disorders. By offering a targeted, effective solution, AD109 has the potential to transform sleep apnea management and improve the quality of life for countless individuals. The path to widespread use will involve further studies and regulatory approvals, with hopes that the FDA will approve the treatment by 2026. As researchers continue to explore and refine this approach, the prospect of a future where sleep apnea is no longer a nightly battle is within reach. This innovation could pave the way for further advancements in the field, inspiring new approaches to the treatment of other sleep-related disorders. As the medical community eagerly anticipates the potential approval and availability of AD109, one question remains: Will this new treatment truly replace the need for traditional therapies, or will it serve as a complement to existing options in the quest for better sleep health? 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