Q Can sleep apnea really be improved with Korean traditional medicine treatment?
A In cases of mild to moderate sleep apnea, there are many instances of reduced snoring frequency and improved daytime sleepiness following treatment to eliminate phlegm and dampness and strengthen the spleen and stomach. For severe cases (AHI 30+), concurrent treatment with CPAP is recommended.
Detailed Answer
Goals and Expected Effects of Oriental Medicine Treatment
Dongjedang Oriental Medicine Clinic's Oriental medicine treatment for sleep apnea proceeds in two main directions.
- Removal of Phlegm and Dampness: By using herbal prescriptions that regulate phlegm in the body and relieve tightness in the chest and throat, we reduce the phlegm and dampness accumulated in the tissues surrounding the airway, thereby widening the airway lumen.
- Strengthening of the Spleen and Stomach: We restore digestive function to block the root cause of the regeneration of phlegm and dampness.
In patients with mild to moderate (AHI 5–29) sleep apnea, cases of reduced snoring frequency, fewer awakenings during sleep, and relief of morning headaches have been reported following consistent Oriental medicine treatment.
Guide for Severe Patients
For severe sleep apnea with an AHI of 30 or higher, the use of CPAP is a medical priority due to the high risk of cardiovascular complications. In this case, herbal treatment is administered concurrently to serve as an auxiliary role in improving the phlegm-dampness constitution.
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