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Eight Sleep – Saturn Mattress with Sleep Tracker Review

I recently tested the Eight Sleep Saturn mattress with the Sleep Tracker purchased from Amazon. I was excited to try it, having reviewed and researched other sleep tech appliances.

The mattress comes rolled up tight in a box and takes about four hours to get to full expansion. It weighs around 75lbs, so you may need an extra pair of hands to maneuver it to where you want to sleep.

There are several mattresses offered by Eight Sleep. I tried the Saturn mattress since it is the most affordable they offer. It is an excellent quality mattress and feels luxurious and expensive, although the price is only $699!  It seems constructed with superior quality materials, so you receive excellent value for money with this mattress.

One of the primary features of the mattress is the 3-layer technology which uses what the company calls a responsive layer for hip and back support, a transition layer to minimize movement, and a thick supportive foam base layer which helps comfort.

I found the mattress to be too firm for my taste. The Saturn feels similar to a firm memory foam Tempurpedic which I find difficult to roll over in. So, the Jupiter or Mars mattresses from Eight Sleep may be a more suitable option for me since both have larger internal layering.

If you are suffering from back problems which affect your sleep, the Saturn may be the ideal mattress for you.

One great thing about the central layer is your spouse or partner can’t feel any movement during the night, so you won’t be disrupting their sleep.

If you do decide to give the mattress a try, you’ll receive two free pillows and coupon offers of $50 off. They also have a 100-day guarantee, so if you don’t like the mattress or you aren’t sleeping better after 100 nights you can request a full refund without any restocking fees.

The Sleep Tracker Review

The highlight of the Eight Sleep mattress range is easily the Smart cover which connects with their Sleep Tracker app. It fits seamlessly over the mattress and the sensors track your heart rate, breathing, and movement. The system seems pretty accurate, and they boast a huge 200 data points and 10 million hours of sleep data collected.

It also controls the temperature of the bed, heating it to your ideal sleep temperature. A feature my wife and I love is that it can warm the bed to different temperatures on either side so if your sleep partner prefers a cooler temperature, there’s no problem. It would be nice if it had a cooling system built-in too, like the Bedjet, which would be perfect for unbearable summer nights.

The Sleep Tracker does not track snoring, so I run the SnoreLab app to monitor the results of my anti-snoring devices.    SnoreLab helps me identify which snoring device is working best.

Using both apps shows how the snoring mouthpieces affect my snoring, total sleep time, number of times I woke up and if I toss and turn. 

If you are just starting out with the SnoreRx, Zyppah, or zQuiet, it’s important to monitor your sleep.  The Sleep Tracker is perfect for that.  I’ve used the SnoreRx for so long that I am accustomed to it and it doesn’t hinder my sleep.

If you are not interested in purchasing an Eight Sleep mattress, you can purchase the Sleep Tracker by itself and use it on your mattress and turn it into a smart bed.

It can also integrate with multiple home technologies; I connected it to Alexa which was perfect for switching the heat on and off and checking my data first thing in the morning without using the remote or even getting out of bed! But if you don’t have Alexa, it also connects with Nest and Phillips Hue.

I tested the tracker for a month, every night. Each morning it was interesting to look at the statistics like how frequently I tossed and turned during the night, or how often I spent in each sleep cycle. It also has a smart alarm which senses when your body is ready to wake up, so you wake up easily and more refreshed.

I find myself showing the app to friends quite often because it is a great conversation piece and it is honestly one of the best sleep tracker apps on the market. It is especially helpful if they are having sleep problems like insomnia or snoring. I simply show them the Eight tracker app on my phone and show them how it can help them with better sleep.

There are a couple of drawbacks. It disconnected a few nights which may have been due to app upgrades or bugs, but it did mean my sleep statistics weren’t 100% accurate for those nights. It also flashed when it disconnected which unfortunately woke me up.

The Sleep Tracker uses Wi-Fi rather than Bluetooth, so if you have data restrictions or a poor signal, the tracker may be unable to obtain accurate data on some nights.

Finally, at $399 just for the smart mattress cover and the app, it is on the expensive side. However, I will continue to use this awesome tech! I really enjoy knowing my nightly sleep patterns, and it helps me to pinpoint certain days I feel sluggish because of lack of sleep.

Eight Sleep Video – Saturn Mattress & Tracker Features

Final Thoughts

The sleep tracker is something I will continue to use. It collects a fantastic amount of data that really helps you to recognize and acknowledge your sleep problem areas. The fact that it is compatible with Alexa is a bonus.

I would recommend the Saturn mattress to anyone who doesn’t mind a firm mattress or for anyone who sleeps on the cooler side. But, if you buy an Eight Sleep mattress make sure you include the Smart cover and app. The Sleep Tracker is an innovative and useful piece of technology for poor sleepers everywhere.

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Level Sleep TriSupport™ Mattress Review

Update: SnoringHQ readers get a special discount with Coupon Code: SnoringHQbed.  Use the code to receive 5% OFF your order of mattresses and toppers. Includes all FOR SALE and promotional items.

It is well-known that Americans do not get enough sleep. Our lack of sleep is the result from overwork – along with bad lifestyle habits. One severe bad habit is ignoring the mattress as an essential part of life.

A quality designed mattress ensures a sound, restful sleep. It can help reduce snoring and serves as a defense against back pain.

A new entry into the high-end mattress market is the LevelSleep TriSupport Mattress. It is a top-notch mattress that I can enthusiastically recommend.

The Principles Behind the Mattress

The fundamental principle behind this mattress is based on the curvature of our bodies. The designer, Roger Sramek, realized that when sleeping in a curved position on your side or sleeping on your back, the body parts need varying levels of support.

Following the successful design of the Restore Pillow, Sramek designed the TriSupport mattress. It provides the appropriate support to the head, shoulders, lumbar region, and hips. The shoulders receive soft support, the hips receive medium, and the lumbar region firm. The combination provides an excellent night’s sleep.

The mattress’ main design feature is its focus on zones, not layers. Each zone is designed to provide the right pressure for each part of the body. Rather than relying on layers of air, springs, or memory foam, as most mattresses do, the LevelSleep concept focuses on where each part of the body lies on the mattress.

Issues With Other Designs

During the research leading to the TriSupport Mattress, Sramek and his team found problems with the different types of mattresses that were available on the market.

Adjustable air mattresses can end up with a central trench because of the separate air bladders they contain. Deflation of the air chambers is also a problem and the mechanical parts, if they don’t consistently work, can be a hassle. They tend to put significant pressure on the hips and noticeable pressure on the shoulders.

Innerspring mattresses may not last as long as others. Additionally, because they are on springs, the squeaking and movement can bother you or your partner, and most require extra padding for full comfort.

Memory foam mattresses may form trenches because the foam tends to pack down. Due to the density of the memory foam, the foam retains heat. In addition to heat, memory foam may also absorb smells. Additionally, it tends to restrict movement—you may struggle to get out of bed in the morning.

And most other mattresses do not provide any spinal alignment.

The Design of the Mattress

To ensure proper spinal alignment for both side and back sleepers, the TriSupport Mattress has four parts designed for support and one for comfort.

The 7” Base Layer provides the mattress’ foundation. It is made of a long-lasting foam which is both breathable and sturdy. It can lie on any flat surface to support the Performance Layer.

The top of the Performance Layer is made of soft foam. It gives for your shoulder, reducing the pressure on your shoulders and upper torso and, coupled with a good pillow—such as LevelSleep’s Restore Pillow or the Nectar Pillow, will ensure a well-aligned sleep for your head, neck, and shoulders.

The firm section of the Performance Layer supports the lower back and sides. It is made from a firmer latex foam and provides the right support for our weak spots, reducing back pain.

The balance of the mattress provides medium support for your hips and legs. The pressure on your hips is reduced, helping them stay aligned with the rest of your body and spine.

The comfort part of the Performance Layer is the fabric cover. It yields when you sleep on it and is made of material that is both breathable and comfortable.

The Base Layer consists of high-resilience polyurethane foam.

LevelSleep also sells a TriSupport Luxe Mattress. The Performance Layer is made entirely from Talalay Blended Latex from Talalay Global. Talalay-process latex resists compression more than Dunlop-process latex, preventing you from ending up sleeping in a hole. Talalay latex is also less likely to lose firmness over time. The latex should not bother those with latex allergies. The foam provides a springier feel.

Traditional mattresses are made with an array of toxic chemicals. Since you sleep on your mattress every night, you could be putting your health at risk. The Levelsleep mattress is made with non-toxic materials so switching your mattress to a Levelsleep mattress is an excellent way to decrease your exposure to toxic chemicals. Be sure to also read our review of the new Purple 4 Mattress.

LevelSleep scores the lowest for disturbed sleep by mattress type.

The Science Supporting the Mattress

The LevelSleep mattress is designed to avoid causing back pain, for both back and side sleepers.

If you sleep on your back, you will likely have back pain because your lower back is not supported. While the mattress supports your shoulders and pelvis, the spine sags, stressing the soft tissues. Side-sleepers suffer back pain because their spine twists. The shoulders sink into the mattress, causing a bend in the spine between the shoulders and pelvis.

A study by the Canadian Chiropractic Association indicates that lumbar support is critical for spinal alignment and controlling back pain. With the Levelsleep mattress, pressure is more evenly-distributed across pelvis, back, and shoulders. The three-part design of the mattress led to a 54% reduction in morning stiffness, as reported in the clinical trial conducted by the company.

The medium-soft shoulder zone of the TriSupport mattress absorbs more of the shoulder’s weight than other mattresses. Spreading the pressure around more makes sure that blood flow remains normal. Clinical trial participants report a 56% reduction in morning pain.

Clinical Trial

The company’s clinical trial found that the three-zone method helped reduce tossing and turning, and participants reported significantly less fatigue and daytime sleepiness.

Clete Kushida M.D., Ph.D. of the Stanford University Sleep Disorders Clinic and Research Center created the trial. It was conducted by Cheri Mah, now at the UCSF Human Performance Center.

Using both objective measures and subjective data provided by recognized sleep questionnaires, the study found that the TriSupport mattress outperformed all other leading mattresses. People got to sleep faster, woke up less, reported less pain and stiffness, and noted a much higher sleep satisfaction.

Buying the Mattress

The mattress is available online or through a network of outlets throughout the country. Most of the outlets are chiropractic clinics. The mattress weighs between 49 – 109 pounds.

Each mattress comes with a 110-night money-back guarantee, and they recommend everyone try it for at least ten nights to become accustomed to the new feel. The company also offers an 11-year limited warranty. The reviews given by customers have mainly been five stars. Before buying check our list of Level Sleep coupon codes.

The mattress is sourced from products made in America and is made in the U.S. Experience the comfort of the mattress at their center in Sonoma, CA.

A visible representation of LevelSleep pressure on the back VS. other mattresses.

  My Experience

Despite the weight, the mattress was easily set up and shipping only took one day. The company accepts PayPal, and if you have PayPal credit, you can finance the purchase.

You will feel the lumbar support when you lie down, and the mattress visually displays where the support zones are. No other mattress in my experience has provided as much lumbar support and spinal alignment. It is clear why chiropractors recommend and sell this mattress to their patients. This incredible mattress gives wonderful healthy support for your spine.

It may take a few nights to get used to the new routine, as the company notes in their guarantee. On my first night, I noticed a slight tenderness in the lower back, but the tenderness was gone by the second night.

I woke up refreshed and full of energy, and I look forward each night to lying on this comfortable mattress. It will be very difficult, if not impossible, to go back to another mattress after this experience.

While the mattress is pricey—a queen TriSupport is $1,899—having a healthy, comfortable night of sleep for $172 per year for the 11-year guarantee is certainly worth the investment.

My wife also tried the mattress. She was surprised at the support and comfort, and her minor neck pain felt better after one night.

Final Thoughts

I would rate this mattress, overall, as a “firm” mattress, but it supports the body in all the right places. It is exceptionally comfortable, and the user awakes feeling refreshed.

The memory foam in this mattress is of excellent quality, and you can experience the high quality from the first night. You know you are lying on something special because of the differing levels of support and pressure.

The three-zone structure actually works. It makes sense in so many ways—sleep science, comfort, and health. The design and engineering are astounding, and it pays off.

This mattress can solve your back or neck problems. It strikes a perfect balance between back support and comfort.

SnoringHQ readers get a special discount with a Mattress Coupon Code: SnoringHQbed.  Use the coupon code to receive 5% OFF your order of mattresses and pillow toppers.  Includes all FOR SALE and promotional items.

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SleepPro Review

When I first decided to add SleepPro to my list of mouthpieces to try, I was not quite sure which one to buy. I ended up ordering Easifit for myself and the Woman version for my wife.

So, this review is for these two anti snoring devices, which are pretty much the same except that the version for women is designed for the average female’s mouth.

Pros and Cons

To fairly evaluate SleepPro’s, mouthpieces, it is important to be aware of all the advantages and disadvantages associated with it.

Advantages

There are a variety of products to choose from.

Easifit uses boil-and-bite to achieve a custom fit.

Airflow holes allow device to be worn by mouth breathers.

SleepPro is affordably priced.

The device is backed by 30-day money back guarantee.

Manufactured by an established company that was founded in 1998.

Some denture wearers have had success wearing the device

Many payment methods to choose from including PayPal and Amazon Payments.

Complaints

There is no way to know what material it is made from. There is no mention of it being BPA- or latex free.

Rinsing, cleaning, or soaking in water that is too hot will make the material rough and uncomfortable.

Device is bulky and uncomfortable to wear.

SleepPro will likely cause drooling and soreness while your mouth gets used to it.

There is no available company address other than a P.O. Box.

Supposedly, the snoring mouthpiece will ruin faster, if not cleaned using a specific SleepPro cleaning product.

There is no option to adjust lower jaw placement.

SleepPro

3.3 Reviewer

Effectiveness3

Comfort1.5

Easy to Clean3

Value (Price)4.5

Durability4

Easy to Breath4

Company Reputation3

Summary

I would have been thrilled if SleepPro would have worked for me, but it didn't. I like that the Easifit model is blue and my wife loved that the lady's version is pink. However, nothing about it is comfortable or thoughtful. Overall I think there are better snoring mouthpieces available.

What is SleepPro?

The first thing you see when you arrive to the SleepPro site is that it is medically approved to stop snoring. This pretty much sounds like the device has been put to the test through medical studies, right? Well, not quite. What that should say is that SleepPro is a mandibular advancement device (MAD), and that MADs have been proven effective to work. This certainly does not mean that all MADs work or that there are any clinical trials to back up this statement.

As mentioned, SleepPro is an MAD, so it is designed to help you stop snoring by holding your lower jaw in a forward position. By doing this, the airway remains free of obstruction.

SleepPro Standard uses the boil-and-bite technique to achieve a custom fit, and this is done in the privacy of your own home. It does have an airflow hole in front, so if you are a mouth breather, you will have no problem breathing normally while you sleep. It does not allow for lower jaw adjustments, which is not necessarily a deal breaker. Some MADs are great without being adjustable. Unfortunately, there is also no mention of what material is used to make this device, which is a little concerning, considering some stop snoring mouthpieces are made of material that contains BPA or latex. The mouthpiece is backed by a 30-day money back guarantee and a 45-day warranty.

My Experience

As mentioned, I decided to try the Easifit model because that is the one that can be custom molded at home. The Contour model was a little too pricey and I didn’t feel like waiting for the lengthy fitting process of the Custom model, so this review is based solely on the Easifit, which is SleepPro’s most popular mouthpiece. I did also order the lady’s version for my wife, which is a little narrower for a smaller mouth.

When they arrived, I cleaned them both using a denture cleaner. The instructions say not to use toothpaste. They also say that using a denture cleaner too often will degrade the plastic. What type of plastic is this that it can’t hold up against denture cleaner? I have used an effervescent tablet on pretty much all of the mouthpieces I have tried with no problem. SleepPro does sell its private line of effervescent cleaning tablets, which seem to me to be the exact same thing.

I will say that before we even used the boil-and-bite method to fit these mouthpieces we both commented on how large they seemed. They are really quite bulky. They appear to be far more streamlined on the website.

The fitting process was easy enough, but we had both used the boil-and-bite method many times in the past, so I’m quite sure anyone will have an easy time achieving a custom fit. We were both “satisfied” with the fit on the first try but certainly not blown away in the comfort department.

On the first night we put them in and just looked at one another. They just feel so big, and within seconds we were both drooling. Usually my wife will stay up and read a bit while I go to sleep, but we both had to be up extra early the next day, so it was lights out at a decent time. Boy, did we pick the wrong night to start a new trial on.

I watched the clock for a long time. Every once in a while my wife would let out an exaggerated sigh, just to let me know how displeased she was. She eventually took it out and tossed it on the nightstand.

In the morning, I felt exhausted. My mouthpiece was on the floor. I clearly hadn’t slept well and at some point my SleepPro either fell out or I took it out in my sleep. At the breakfast table, our teenage son made a sarcastic remark, wondering when we were going to stick with a mouthpiece that works and stop torturing him.

Before we went to sleep the second night we decided to do the molding process again, just to be sure we had the best possible fit. I can’t say how my wife’s felt, but mine felt exactly the same. The next night, my wife fell asleep before me (she must have been really tired), and sadly there was no improvement. She was snoring just as loud as she usually does. I finally elbowed her and told her to take it out and put her ZQuiet in. There was no point in both of us being tired, and if I was going to lie there counting sheep, I didn’t want to listen to her snore. Sometime in the early morning hour I took mine out so I could sleep.

I have to be honest; I didn’t give SleepPro a full week trial. I actually lasted through night four, so the fifth morning I was done. SleepPro Easifit may work for some people, but it certainly did not work for us.

Let’s Talk Price

SleepPro Easifit was $44.95. Shipping varies based on your location. A two-pack is also available for $64.95. The mouthpieces are backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. If you go with one of the more advanced options you will be interested to know that the Contour model is $129.95 and the Custom option is $259.99. As mentioned, SleepPro also sells other products, such as chinstraps and effervescent cleansing tablets.

Final Thoughts

SnoreRX and VitalSleep would be better options in the moderate price range. If you are willing to spend just a bit more then go with ZQuiet. You don’t even have to pay the fee upfront. You pay for shipping and then the price gets charged to your card in 35 days, so you have plenty of time to try it out to see if it is the right option for you.

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AiSleep Direct Pillow

AiSleep is a small company, with offices in Florida, Australia, and Hong Kong. Each pillow is shipped directly from China—hence the direct in the name. Shipping takes 2-3 weeks from China.

About the Pillow

This memory foam pillow is designed to provide each sleeper with many health benefits. The first thing you’ll notice is the steep 40° angle. This aspect aims to support your neck and relieve tension there and in the shoulders.

The pillow also includes bio-magnets which should line up with the acupoints around the neck. The magnetic effect is supposed to aid blood circulation and deeper sleep. The pillow’s design works for both back and side sleepers and is intended to lessen snoring and help with sleep apnea.

The pillow also includes a small hollow in the center which will cradle the ear. The design should keep head, neck, and spine in good, proper alignment. The elevation should also lower arm numbness related to side-sleeping.

The materials are hypoallergenic and unappealing to dust mites. The pillow includes air holes which make the pillow breathe, thus lowering the risk from bacteria.

Ai Direct Pillow Video Review

The Magnets

The inclusion of magnets is a unique feature of the AiSleep pillow. It’s worth taking at least a quick look at the claimed benefits of magnetic treatment.

The use of magnets in medical treatment is an ancient practice. Magnets are used in acupressure treatment, for example. Practitioners in this field see the main reason for disease or dysfunction in the body is static electromagnetism, or stagnant qi, in the traditional language. Among other practices, the magnets can help reestablish the flow of the electromagnetic field.

In addition, magnets are used to treat acute pain. Use of monopole magnetics may provide numerous benefits, including reduction of inflammation, restoration of tissue polarity, and acceleration of the healing process. Magnets may also assist in the treatment of chronic pain syndrome.

The science on magnets so far tends to lean against the benefits, but the literature contains enough indications to justify more research in specific areas. One study indicates further research into acu-magnet therapy is warranted, especially for insomnia and diabetes.

Spine/Neck Alignment

It’s well known that back pain is the price we pay for being able to walk on two legs. We, therefore, need to take care of our back in many ways, and sleep is one of them. Sleep allows the ligaments and muscles of the back to relax and heal, provided we sleep correctly.

The goal for good sleep is to support the natural curves of the spine, especially the lower back. Sleeping on your back seems to be the best way to do this, especially if you use a small pillow under your knees. This pillow reduces stress on the spine and supports the lower back. Your head pillow then supports the head and neck.

If you sleep on your side, you might want to consider a firm pillow between your knees. This pillow keeps the top leg from knocking the spine out of alignment.

My Experience with AiSleep

One of the claimed features of the pillow is that it helps reduce snoring. This feature was the main reasons I ordered it. Because they are shipped directly from the manufacturer in China, it takes 2-3 weeks. When it arrived, I was surprised—I’d forgotten I’d ordered it. I suspect the reason for the ‘Direct’ in the name comes from this shipping practice.

I found the price competitive with other pillows designed to address snoring and with other memory-foam pillows. The design includes other features I hadn’t seen before. (I did send customer service a question, but did not hear back from them).

A few days after arrival, I finally had a chance to test it. I started with a nap and had no problems falling and staying asleep. It’s fairly thin, even with the 40° angle. It’s firm—it clearly falls in the support pillow class because of the firmness. I’d rate it as an 8/10 on a firmness scale.

The pillow is clearly designed to ensure perfect spine and neck alignment. I noticed an immediate effect on my back—a bit of pain, but that’s probably from the adjustment period. I knew I would have to sleep for several nights on it.

From the side, you can see that angle. You might think your head would tilt downward with the pillow. In use, however, it has a natural feel. Along the left, higher side, there’s a cradle for the neck, and the foam yields enough to ensure neck/spine alignment. I did not feel any neck pain.

Future Nights

I slept for two nights on this pillow and measured my snoring score each night. The snoring time ranged from 26-34%, and the volume was slightly reduced. This percentage of time is slightly below average for me, but I can’t call it a significant, noticeable change. I would still near to wear my SnoreRx mouthpiece or use a nasal dilator, such as the MUTE device to achieve a significant reduction.

I found this pillow to be too thin for me. I repeatedly folded it over during the night, as I’m used to propping my head up on a thicker down-feather pillow. If this pillow makes the cut and I continue to use it, I’d have to get used to a thinner pillow. I’d also need to change my habit of doubling-up.

The bio-magnets did not provide any noticeable effect for me during those two nights. Again, the benefits may require longer-term use of the pillow. I felt rested on this pillow but did not feel any more rested than on a regular pillow.

The pillow does provide excellent spinal alignment. The back pain I noticed from the nap vanished, demonstrated that I easily adjusted to it. The theory behind the design seems to make sense because I didn’t experience any back or neck pain.

AiSleep Direct Pillow Review

3.4 Reviewer

0.4 Users (5 votes)

Effectiveness2.5

Comfort4

Easy to Clean4.5

Value (Price)3.5

Durability3.5

Easy to Breath4

Company Reputation1.5

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Summary

This pillow is perfectly fine. While it did not provide significant help for snoring, it worked in other ways. It’s a reasonably-priced support pillow. The quality of the memory foam is good. If you’re looking for better airflow and spinal alignment, this pillow works very well. The bio-magnets may provide a benefit for you. If you’re a pillow folder, I’m sure you’ll be able to break the habit. For more pillow choices, view my latest pillow reviews.

  The post AiSleep Direct Pillow appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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New Purple 4 Mattress Review

The new Purple 4 Mattress is a scientifically-developed mattress with patented filling being advertised as the most comfortable premium mattress you can buy.

What makes The Purple Mattress so innovative?  And does the experience of sleeping on this science approved mattress stack up to Purple’s claims?

Patented Design

The Purple Mattress is made with a hyper-elastic polymer grid which acts as a pressure-reliever and changes form with the contours of your body. The mattress not only delivers comfort but provides the spinal alignment of a firm mattress.

The Purple is a mattress that lasts for decades because it won’t sag or leave a sinkhole in your favored sleeping position.  When you’re done sleeping, it springs back into place for your next sleep, unlike other mattresses which lose their structure over time.

VS. Competition

The Purple.4 Mattress Cal King Tempurpedic TEMPUR-Contour Supreme Leesa Luxury Hybrid Mattress Responsive material Yes Yes Yes Temperature neutral Yes Yes Yes Moisture- reducing Yes Yes No Removable, washable cover Yes Yes No Patented materials Yes No No CertiPUR-US­® Yes No No Recyclable Yes No No Equalized Pressure Yes Yes Yes Allergen Resistant Yes No No

  My Experience

I came across The Purple Mattress 4 which impressed me with their scientific claims and reviews, so I put in an order for the largest mattress, the Cal King, at a cost of $3,500.   The 4 is the thickest and most advanced mattress that Purple sells.    They also carry a 2, 3 or the original.

The mattress arrived promptly via a specialty delivery service,  due to the extra large size and weight of the mattress. These days, mattresses arrive shrink-wrapped, so you have to let them breathe for 24-hours before you sleep on them. However, the Purple Mattress is ready to sleep on as soon as it arrives, a big plus in my opinion.

It is a heavy mattress. It took two strong men a lot of time and effort to get the mattress into my house and into position. The gel used in all Purple products give it a quality feel that is unmatched by other brands.

Sleeping on the mattress feels like a cross between a waterbed and memory foam. It’s springy and has some give, but it isn’t bouncy. Similar to a premium memory foam mattress, I couldn’t feel my partner move at night nor could she sense me.

When it comes to the outer covering, it is beautiful and practical. It is machine washable, which is a big plus for those who have allergies. The fabric is stitched well and thick, meaning the only extra item you would need to sleep on the Purple is a set of sheets. The removable cover does away with the need to use a mattress topper; those things tend to shift around anyway.

The first night for me was a decent uninterrupted sleep.  It was an improvement because on other mattresses I can wake up with numbness in my legs, meaning I toss and turn all night to shake off the discomfort.

The Purple provides good support and it doesn’t feel hot or sticky. The mattress is a cool surface to sleep on and I don’t sweat as I sometimes did with my previous mattress. When I got out of bed, I inspected it for signs of an impression. But it sprung back into place as soon as I got out, which was impressive.

It did take me a few nights to get used to the way the mattress adapts to your body shape, but this is because my previous mattress lacked this feature.

While it is an expensive mattress, the improvement in my well-being, as well as my overall quality of sleep, make that spend an absolute value for money.

Investing in The Purple Mattress is a good move if you are dealing with significant symptoms like I have during sleep.

Premium Customer Service

All Purple Mattresses come with a no-questions-asked money back guarantee, giving you confidence that your money won’t go to waste. When you receive your Purple Mattress, they’ll even discard your old mattress for you, eliminating the hassle of upgrading a large home item (because as we all know, sometimes the old mattress hangs around for years becoming a space hogger in the garage or a spare room!).

If you think you need assistance, setup is included in the purchase. It comes with a 10-year warranty; excellent value for money for those who care about the quality of their sleep over the long haul.

How the Purple is Constructed

The grid formation is vertically constructed in columns which promote airflow through the mattress toward the sleeper. This stops any moisture from becoming trapped which reduces the possibility of any nasty viruses or bacteria growing. It also makes the mattress last longer because it won’t degrade or rot. This cooling aspect makes for a more comfortable sleep because you’ll have less chance of overheating – a common problem with materials such as latex and memory foam.

The grid is responsive material, which is important when you consider the impact of other people’s movements on your sleep. If you’re a light sleeper, then this is the mattress for you. Unlike other brands, the grid system it is designed to move rapidly under certain types of pressure, meaning you won’t get woken up by movement on the other side of the bed and you won’t annoy loved ones if you decide to get up or change your position.

It is rare to find a mattress like this that boasts of being both recyclable and made from food-contact grade ingredients. You won’t find any toxins in either the mattress or in the assembly process used to create The Purple Mattress. Awarded a CertiPUR-US­® certification, the hallmark of premium products promoting healthy sleeping environments, this mattress is a standout in innovative features.

What could be more valuable to you than the feeling of waking up after a quality night’s sleep?

The post New Purple 4 Mattress Review appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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SalinPlus Salt Therapy Review

SalinPlus, a home salt therapy device, is a product licensed by Lion Healthcare, based in Perth, Australia. It both charges the air with tiny salt particles and filters the air of other particulates, including dust and allergens.

Lion Healthcare was launched in 2011. SalinPlus went on the market in Western Australia in 2012. Based on their early success, the company began distributing the device nationwide, with an unprecedented 60-day money back guarantee. In 2017, the company secured exclusive distribution rights in Canada and the United States.

The device itself was invented by a Romanian chemist, Constantin Pascu in 1999. In 2002, it earned the Gold Medal at the 51st World Exhibition for Innovation, Research, and New Technology, held that year in Brussels.

The company’s founder, Barry Colgan, B.E., came upon SalinPlus during a visit to Ireland. He was so impressed by the product that he traveled to Romania to meet the inventor. The licensing for Australia and New Zealand followed.

The SalinPlus device is available online, and the replacement filter cartridges too. Each filter cartridge lasts for 4-6 months. They also sell replacement power adapters and offer free shipping for U.S. orders over $50.

Salt Therapy Spas and Salt Therapy

Salt therapy is a recent addition to treatments for asthma, COPD, allergies, bronchitis, and other breathing-related conditions. But while it is a new treatment, indications of the benefits of salt in the air date back to the mid-1800s, when salt miners were observed to have no breathing problems.

Salt therapy rooms mimic salt caves.  Some use pink salt imported from eastern Europe;  the pink salt has 84 minerals in it.  Each salt therapy room has a halogenerator, which crushes the salt into tiny particles—1-5 microns in size (an inch is 25,400 microns long). These particles are sprayed into the air.

The salt therapy room itself is a relaxing experience, as is any spa-like treatment. People feel better simply by being in a relaxed, low-light environment.

Salt therapy has been used to treat a variety of respiratory ailments.

Asthma, bronchitis, and allergies

Sinusitis, sore throat, and chronic cough

Nasal congestion, pneumonia recovery, and tonsillitis

Snoring and sleep apnea

Salt therapy may also be helpful for eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Salt therapy is intended as a complementary treatment. While it is completely natural and safe, asthma sufferers, for example, should not abandon their inhalers. Some slight skin irritations or coughs have been observed.

The benefits of salt therapy have not been rigorously studied. While the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America rates the treatment as “likely safe,” they note the need for further study to pinpoint the benefits of the therapy.

SalinPlus Video of Features & Review

About the SalinPlus

The SalinPlus device is designed to give people the salt therapy experience at home. The device consists of a framed fan and filter cartridge. The fan pulls in air from the room and pushes it through a filter which will remove over 98% of particles 10 microns, or larger—most pollens and mold spores are larger than that.

The air flow then pushes out the dry salt particles, which are below 5 microns in size. They are small enough to get deep into the lungs. SalinPlus recommends putting the device on a desk or bedside table, and point it towards you. The filter cartridges should last for 4-6 months before replacement; if you buy in advance, the company estimates they have a shelf-life of two years.

They do indicate the device does help with snoring. It addresses many conditions, such as hay fever, congestion, and bronchitis which can lead to snoring.

The device has been around for 15 years. One review from Australia was generally favorable, stressing its benefits over and above the improvements to breathing. They also noted the high rate of customer satisfaction.

The average rating from an Australia-based site is 4.5/5, based on 293 reviews.

The salt in the SalinPlus comes from Slanic Prahova in Romania. Home of the largest salt mine in Europe open to the public, the active industrial mine still produces high-quality salt.

My Experience

My interest in snoring led me to this product. Although a bit pricey, I was intrigued by the description. I ordered it on-line, and delivery was prompt. Extended family members were interested in it—everyone knows someone who snores, and any new solution is going to get attention.

The goal of SalinPlus is to provide the salt room experience in the home. They truly believe in their product and are willing to stand behind it with their 60-day guarantee. I think it will interest a lot of people because it is an innovative approach to respiratory issues, many of which affect sleep.

The SalinPlus is easy to use. All you do is plug it in—the filter is already installed. The device does have a dial for fan strength; I set it to high, hoping that would maximize the effects on my snoring. I turned it on about 30 minutes before going to bed, and after a while, I noticed a very slight, pleasant aroma in the room—a slight atmospheric change.

On lying down, I noticed a slight sensitivity in my eyes; I did lie awake for a bit longer than normal.

I slept all night. I did not wake up. Both facts are unusual. I seemed to get in a deep sleep. When I checked my snore recording app, my snoring was down to 24%–the Snore Score of 26. This number marks a moderate reduction than my recent results with no snoring aid.

Additional Testing

A friend with asthma tested it next for me. She’s used it for five days. During that time, she has not used her maintenance inhaler. That frequency is unusual and seems to promise more.

She says she will use it for as long as the good effects last.

Pros

It’s easy to use.

Reduced my snoring.

It reduced asthma symptoms.

I woke up refreshed.

It has the added benefit of air purification.

Cons

The filters need to be replaced 2 times per year (at $50 each).

Summary

This device is worth trying for many reasons, including snoring. It seems especially effective for nasal or congestion-related snoring. Based on my friend’s experience, it also seems beneficial for asthma or allergies.

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WoodyKnows Nasal Dilator Review

If you have a significant level of nasal congestion, interrupted sleep due to snoring, or any number of other nasal problems, you likely need an advanced nasal dilator to help restore healthy breathing. Snoring and other nasal problems can often be the sign or symptom of any number of physiological problems, such as sleep apnea or high blood pressure.

These are physical problems which, in turn, can be a sign of an unhealthy heart or even a chronic illness such as diabetes. Are you ready to become free from snoring and nasal congestion? In that case, you should look no further than the advanced nasal dilator made by WoodyKnows, a breathing aid that opens your up your nasal passages so you can be relieved from difficult breathing

About the founding of WoodyKnows and their products

WoodyKnows was founded in 2006 to help customers find an affordable way to reduce their snoring and nasal congestion, whether it is from allergies or a chronic problem such as sleep apnea. The product is not an anti-snoring solution, but it does help to significantly reduce snoring.

The company also creates nasal filters, sleep masks, mouth tape, and a number of other sleep and snoring aids to help result in peaceful sleep. Many of their products are targeted at those who suffer from allergies, which are usually a seasonal affliction.

However, some of their products are also good for those who are looking for a solution at any time of the year. The company WoodyKnows has even specifically created an aesthetically pleasing sleep solution for women called the su-zi pink slim.

WoodyKnows Nasal Dilator For Snoring & Better Breathing Video Review

About the nasal dilator device

—————————————

Update:  WoodyKnows now has a new dilator that comes in four sizes.  I tested this and found it to be a great alternative to their previous version reviewed below.   The new dilator is soft and provides excellent dilation.   

Read more about the new WoodyKnows dilator here.

—————————————

Despite its rather large size, it is in fact very flexible, meaning a customer of any nose size or shape can adapt the nasal dilator for their specific needs. Each package arrives with three separate dilators, which is great in case you lose or misplace one or two.

Each package comes with thorough and direct instructions on how to properly use the device. The nasal dilator is BPA free, and its invisible design renders it very easy to wear without ruining your aesthetic or making it blatantly obvious you are wearing an appliance. This means you can wear it during your day to help relieve your breathing instead of simply when you are going to sleep at night.

The natural design helps to ensure the item stays securely in its place and makes sure the appliance fits very easily into your nostril.

My Own Experience with WoodyKnows and their Nasal Dilator

When I first bought the package and removed the insert slip of paper I realized the product contained instructions that were much more detailed in scope than any other nasal dilators that I had tried in the past. However, the detailed instructions were by no means condescending to the reader. They helped me to quickly and efficiently insert the device into my nostril.

I decided to try the nasal dilator after finishing brushing my teeth, just to see how it felt on a bare, morning face. I could barely fit it into my nostrils because the device was so huge! It really stretches out your nostrils.

My wife and I had a good and hearty laugh at how big my nostrils appeared with the nasal dilator inserted in them. I have never utilized a nasal dilator that comes anywhere close to how big these stretched my nasal airways. However, despite the initial shock at the change in my appearance, I realized I did not care that much, and after a few minutes, I got used to both the look and the feel of the device. After all, the point of the nasal dilator is to, well, DILATE my nostrils, and if it did not feel like it was stretching out my nose, what  is the point?

Overall, in that case, this is an excellent nasal dilator to help maximize airflow through my nose. The only other device that I can think of that can be realistically compared to the size of this one is the MUTE, since you can adjust the size of that nasal dilator, and they also arrive at a relatively large width.

Even though the WoodyKnows nasal dilator was rather large at first insertion, it was quite comfortable, and I barely noticed it for the rest of the morning. I took out the nasal dilator for the remainder of my day, but I did put it in again a little later before falling asleep. My wife and I logged all my snoring for the night on a piece of paper.

The snoring results were a bit mixed, as my usual snoring still took place with the WoodyKnows nasal dilator. Unfortunately, neither my wife nor I noticed a significant reduction in my snoring on the snoring app I have on my smartphone. When I did wake up at night, I experienced some discomfort while wearing the dilator.

When I woke up in the morning, the discomfort was a little noticeable, which I am attributing to the rather large size of the nasal dilator. I would say that, ultimately, the WoodyKnows nasal dilator is probably better off being used for those who suffer from allergies on a seasonal basis rather than those who have chronic sleep apnea or other breathing issues, or even for those who are looking for a cure to their snoring. Or, the user should combine the piece with another anti-snoring solution like a mouthpiece.

Pros:

A natural shape that fits the nostril.

Stays in place.

Ideal for maximizing airflow.

Clear and concise instructions.

BPA-free.

Cons:

At $16.99 per pack seems expensive.

Really stretches nostrils.

Uncomfortable.

Mixed snoring results.

Summary

If you want to maximize your physical nasal dilation, use these. As with all nasal dilators, the results are mixed on the snoring reduction. There are only three nasal dilators per package, which makes this brand a little expensive. You can even check out reviews on Amazon, which while mostly favorable, are also a little mixed.

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SleepTight Mouthpiece Review

SleepTight Mouthpiece did not necessarily blow me away, but it didn’t disappoint me either. If I didn’t have other anti snoring devices that had already really impressed me this one may have landed closer to my list of favorites. I like it, especially since I was able to try it for $10.

It is a moderately priced mandibular advancement device (MAD) that I found to be quite useful. It is not insanely comfortable (what MAD is), but I certainly was not counting the days to get the trial done either.

Video of the SleepTight Anti-Snore Device

Advantages of SleepTight Mouthpiece

The product was designed by an experienced dentist.

Airflow hole in the front allows you to breathe through the mouth.

Boil-and-bite technique allows you to achieve a custom fit from the privacy of your home.

Low upfront fee lets you try it for 30 days to see if you like it before investing the full amount.

Cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration.

Long lifespan ranging from six months to two years.

Can be refitted up to five times without comprising material.

Partial denture wearers can use this device as long as there are some teeth on top and bottom.

Simple design makes it easy to clean.

 SleepTight Mouthpiece Complaints

No mention of what material is used to make this device, which leads one to assume it contains BPA

The design does not allow for lower jaw placement adjustments.

May experience increased salivation temporarily while your mouth gets used to it.

The device will stain if cleaned with toothpaste or mouthwash.

No mailing address or phone number listed on the site.

SleepTight

4.2 Reviewer

$9.95 TrialPrice

Effectiveness4.5

Comfort4.5

Easy to Clean4

Value (Price)4.5

Durability4

Easy to Breath4

Company Reputation4

Summary

I like the SleepTight mouthpiece. It isn't a bulky feeling in the mouth, is pretty comfortable, and was overall effective. It's nice that they have a trial price and period as well. Although the mouthpiece is approved by the FDA, it may contain BPA (not confirmed).

What is SleepTight Mouthpiece?

SleepTight Mouthpiece is a MAD that can be custom-fitted in the privacy of your home. It is designed to hold the lower jaw in a forward position, thereby keeping the airway free of obstruction.

This device has a hard exterior and an inner core of material that gets softened to create a mold of your jaw. So, it if it’s tight to stay in place, but its strong exterior makes it extra durable. This mouthpiece features an air hole that measures 6 millimeters, so it is plenty large enough to allow enough oxygen to pass through for mouth breathers, but it is not so large that it forces your mouth to remain in an uncomfortable position all night.

SleepTight snoring mouthpiece was designed by a dentist. It is manufactured in the United Kingdom and cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration. It can be refitted up to four or five times, and it has a longer than average lifespan of six months to two years.

Those used by individuals who grind their teeth or clench their jaw in their sleep see the shorter lifespan. Unlike other MADs that can’t be worn with any dentures, SleepTight Mouthpiece can be worn with partial dentures. As long as you have some upper and lower teeth, this oral appliance may work for you.

Let’s Talk Price

The Sleep Tight Mouthpiece is $69.95, but you don’t have to pay that upfront. One of the reasons I even decided to give this mouthpiece a try was because I only had to pay $9.95 per device (bought one for my wife, too) upfront. Then, you get 30 days from the time the device ships to give it a try.

If you like it, your card will be charged $59.95 after 30 days. If it’s not for you, you can return the device, and your card will not be charged. So, you could technically look at it as the device costing $59.95 and shipping and handling being the $9.95 you pay upfront. Either way, you look at it; it’s a pretty good deal.

My Experience

Obviously, the first thing I liked about my experience with SleepTight Mouthpiece is that I only had to pay $20 to order two. I did end up having the full amount charged to my card 30 days later, though, but the low upfront fee was nice.

When they arrived, I cleaned them, and we did the boil-and-bite method to fit them. The fitting process was simple; we both achieved a good fit the first time. I like that they felt snug, but like I said earlier, I just was not overly excited about it. It is not too bulky or uncomfortable, but I just never had a “Hey, I really like this mouthpiece!” moment.

When I put it in for the night, I was instantly drooling, which is common when I start using a new device. I was aware of it in my mouth, but I was not aching to take it out. I fell asleep rather quickly.

The next morning, I felt energetic, so I knew I had not snored. I felt like I really had a good night’s sleep. My wife was already up making breakfast before I got out of bed. She was pleased, too. She also said she liked it but didn’t necessarily love it. On the other hand, our teenage son who was up late studying for finals loved the mouthpiece because he said we did not snore all night. My mouth was a little sore, but by the fourth day, I had gotten used to it and was no longer bothered by its presence.

The rest of the trial went the same as the first night. We found SleepTight Mouthpiece to be an effective snoring solution.

Is SleepTight Mouthpiece for You?

I found SleepTight Mouthpiece to be an effective snoring solution (Click here for the best SleepTight offer). It fits well, and it’s not overly bulky. I really like that I did not have to pay the full amount to try it. If you are looking for a MAD in this price range, I would also consider ZQuiet, SnoreRx, or Zyppah. ZQuiet also offers the same option of only paying for shipping upfront, so you can try it for 30 days before you buy it. It is a flexible mouthpiece that happens to be one of my favorites. If the mouth guards/devices are not giving you the results you want (you must give them time so you can adjust), I suggest trying a TRD such as Good Morning Snore Solution.

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5 Natural Remedies to Soothe Asthma Symptoms

If you are one of the 26 million asthma suffers in America, you’re very familiar with the variety of medicine doctors often prescribe to assist with the symptoms. While these drugs do help and provide the user with fast relief, they can be quite expensive.

Due to the overall cost, as well as concern over some chemicals found in asthma medications, many individuals are seeking out natural and holistic methods to treat their asthma. Most often these techniques are used in conjunction with traditional medicines and are showing large-scale success in reducing asthma symptoms.

Here are some great natural alternatives to western medicine to help alleviate those asthma blues and help you breathe easy.

1. Watch What You Eat

One of the main ways you can help prevent asthma flare-ups is by monitoring your diet. Focusing on ingesting foods with higher levels of antioxidants and nutrients will help battle natural irritants and allergens that are often the source of an attack.

Aim for foods that are colorful, like carrots, veggies, leafy greens, tomatoes, and root vegetables. These types of fares, known as carotenoids, contain loads of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Vitamin A is a key element in battling asthma.

Current studies have shown that those with lower levels of vitamin A often have more frequent, and more severe, asthma attacks. Ensuring your diet is rife with delicious treats containing vitamin D and magnesium along with Vitamin A is essential in battling asthma symptoms.

2. Supplement Your Diet

In addition to keeping a close eye on what you’re using to fuel your body, you will also want to add some extra vitamins. Regarding asthma, many attacks are triggered, or more intense, when certain vitamins and minerals are in low supply.

Making sure to add necessary vitamin supplements like Vitamin C, Vitamin B3, and Vitamin B12 will increase the antioxidants in your body and give additional support to your immune system. Don’t forget to pick up some zinc too, as this little mineral helps your body cope with stress.

3. Purify Your Life

Since keeping an eye on your diet to ensure everything going into your body will help soothe your asthma, it only makes sense to make sure everything outside of your body is as pure as possible as well. While you cannot always make sure the air you breathe is free of allergens, you can control the air quality in your own home.

Ensuring a low-level of irritants inside of your home will not only reduce your bouts of asthma, but it will help decrease the amount of dust in your home too. Washing sheets on a weekly basis, vacuuming frequently, and using hypo-allergenic bedding will also help to keep your home free from those pesky irritants.

4. Essential Oils

Whether you’re already a supporter of essential oils or not, chances are you’ve been hearing about them for quite some time. The reason for that is while the concept is simple, the effects are hard to deny. When using these correctly, these tiny oils are mighty and can help boost your immune system, balance hormones, cleanse the air, alleviate migraines, and most importantly, help alleviate asthma symptoms.

Peppermint and eucalyptus are the two scents that will help asthma sufferers the most. These not only help to counteract allergies, but they are also known to help open constricted airways. You can use these scents in a diffuser, or for a more focused application create a scented vapor rub.

5. Relaxation is Key

Life is hectic, and chances are you’re almost always in a bit of a hurry or working under a time crunch. While the hustle and bustle are great for accomplishing tasks, it is less than stellar when it comes to keeping your asthma in check. The stress from our daily lives causes asthma to flare up much more often and with more intensity than it would otherwise.

The reason stress causes more attacks, is because stress decreases the function of your immune system. This lowering of protection allows more allergens to work their ways into your system, causing inflammation, which in turn triggers asthma symptoms.

Ensuring you set aside time every day to focus on relaxation will not only do wonders in decreasing the occurrence of your bouts of asthma, but it will also help your health overall. Giving yourself time to decompress daily will assist in maintaining a good blood pressure level, improve digestion, reduce both muscle tension, and decrease levels of chronic pain. So, make sure to take some time each evening to just focus on you.

Final Thoughts

The best way to soothe your asthma is to focus on living a healthy lifestyle. With so many irritants and pollutants in the air, making sure you reduce the number of allergens in your diet and environment is critical in keeping your asthma in check. Not only will focusing on a clean atmosphere, good food, good vitamins and relaxation help control your asthma attacks, but you’ll also find it increases your overall health and will make you feel amazing.

The post 5 Natural Remedies to Soothe Asthma Symptoms appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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Managing Asthma When You Work on Construction Sites

Do your asthma symptoms get worse at work but when you go home the symptoms lessen, and you can breathe a lot easier? If so, you could have work-related asthma. Substances on your job site are likely aggravating your asthma.

Asthma is a severe health problem that can be caused on a construction site by breathing in or having skin contact with dust, gases, fumes, and vapors. Specific construction site asthma triggers include grout, cement, solvents, lime, paint, diesel emissions, epoxy resins, adhesives, welding fumes, shotcrete, mold, and smoke.

Welding fumes, for example, are produced during welding. Welders have a greater chance of getting asthma than the average worker. Those who weld stainless steel are especially vulnerable because the fumes contain chromium and nickel.

Asthma caused in the workplace or on a job site is known as occupational asthma.

What is an Asthma Attack?

The muscle wall of the lungs contracts and the lining of the airways become swollen and inflamed during an asthma attack. These changes cause the airways to narrow obstructing the flow of air. Shortness of breath, wheezing, painful coughing and tightness in the chest are just some of the symptoms those living with occupational asthma may have to deal with every day.

How to Control Asthma

Control asthma by taking medicine and avoiding triggers that can cause asthma symptoms. Construction site workers should minimize exposure to triggers, wear the appropriate safety equipment, report malfunctioning equipment to the work safety officer and see a medical professional if they think they are experiencing asthma symptoms.

Occupational Asthma

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) “approximately 11 million workers are exposed to at least one agent associated with occupational asthma.”

And a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, concluded 2.7 million American workers might have asthma caused or aggravated by on-the-job conditions.

More than 300 substances in the workplace can cause or worsen asthma. Symptoms can develop immediately after exposure, or they can develop months or years after repeated exposure. Worsening asthma or new onset asthma should raise questions about job site causes.

Symptoms of Occupational Asthma

Symptoms of occupational asthma get better on weekends and vacations. In some cases, however, symptoms do not improve until an extended period away from the exposure or trigger.

Workers can get occupational asthma even when using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators, face masks or gloves.

How to Minimize Your Risk of an Asthma Attack at Work

Request Ventilation

Discuss ventilation and other allergen filtering systems with the safety officer.

Find an Alternative

Examine less caustic alternatives with your supervisor if you identify asthma-triggering substances.

Wear Safety Equipment

Protect yourself by always wearing the required safety equipment to limit exposure to triggers.

See a Medical Professional

Your doctor can diagnose asthma. Tell your doctor about work exposures. Also, consider documenting when and where your symptoms occur so you can share the details of tasks you complete at work and the materials you use. In addition to a complete physical, your doctor may also administer a peak flow test, and develop a personal asthma control plan.

Manage Your Asthma

If you’ve been prescribed asthma medicine, take it as directed. Don’t skip doses because you feel better and make sure they haven’t expired. Always keep your inhaler within reach in case you experience an attack.

Talk to Your Co-Workers

Let the safety officer know something is triggering your asthma so you can work together. Your supervisor may suggest you work in another location, use an alternative product or use additional protective gear. Share your asthma action plan, so your co-workers know what to do if you experience an attack.

How to Treat Occupational Asthma

Avoiding or reducing exposure to triggers is the most critical step. Asthma is treated with two types of medicine:

Quick-relief rescue inhalers which open the airways. Those living with asthma use rescue inhalers to treat asthma attacks or flare-ups.

Long-term control medicines which reduce inflammation in the airways. Asthma patients use these medicines to help keep asthma symptoms from occurring. When these medications are working well, inhalers are not used as much.

Final Thoughts

Address asthma symptoms with your supervisors as soon possible. Long-term exposure to substances that cause asthma can cause permanent lung damage. Seek out a medical professional who can help you develop an action plan to manage your condition on the job site.

  The post Managing Asthma When You Work on Construction Sites appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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Extra Precautions Asthma Sufferers Need to Take During Flu Season

As the winter season moves in, so does the flu and for those with asthma, this can be an exceptionally stressful time of year. If you have asthma, even a minor case of the flu can lead to tightness in the chest and wheeziness.

The flu is a common cause of asthma attacks, and standard asthma medications may not relieve the asthma symptoms that come with it. Though people living with asthma are not more likely to catch the flu, influenza can be more severe for them, even if their symptoms are well-maintained with medication. People living with asthma have sensitive and swollen airways, and the flu can cause more inflammation.

A flu infection in the airways can worsen asthma symptoms and set off asthma attacks. It can also lead to pneumonia and other acute respiratory issues.

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent getting the flu. However, taking measures to avoid becoming ill during the flu season can help. Being proactive during the flu season is essential if you have asthma.

Take these precautionary measures to avoid getting the flu.

Get a Flu Shot

Possibly the most critical step in protecting against influenza is vaccination. Get the actual shot, not the nasal spray vaccine as the spray can produce asthma symptoms.

Even if you don’t have a regular physician, you can get a flu vaccine. They are offered in various locations including pharmacies, health departments, clinics, college health centers, public schools, and sometimes at your place of employment.

Flu vaccines are approved for those six months and older regardless of whether they have asthma. Encourage your family members to get vaccinated too. This will reduce exposure to the virus not only for the one who has asthma but also for everyone else in the household.

Get a Pneumococcal Shot

Pneumonia infections are a dangerous complication of the flu infection and can lead to death. You can usually get a pneumococcal vaccine at the same time you receive your influenza vaccine.

Avoid Those Who are Sick

Germs that produce respiratory infections are effortlessly passed from one person to another. They especially spread quickly in tight spaces. It can be tough to avoid someone who is sick when you are in close quarters such as your household or at your place of employment.

When a sick person sneezes, coughs, or even talks, minuscule drops of mucus hit the air and can spread out up to six feet away. You can end up taking them in through your mouth or nose, so keep your distance.

Be cognizant of your surroundings. People are most contagious when they start having symptoms such as coughing, runny nose, fever, or body aches.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

Washing your hands kills the germs that cause respiratory infections. This is especially important if you’ve been in a crowded area such a shopping area, school, or office where you may have come into contact with someone who has the flu.

Use warm water, lots of soap and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Don’t forget the areas between your fingers, under your nails, on your wrists and slightly up your arm.

Always keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in your car or at your desk.

Don’t Touch Eyes, Nose, or Mouth

Avoid touching your face as these are the points where germs enter the body. If you touch something that a person with the flu virus has coughed or sneezed on, and then you put your fingers near your mouth, nose, or eyes, you’re very likely to get sick too.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Some germs can live on surfaces for up to 24 hours. Most microbes usually only survive up to eight hours. However, some viruses that cause the common cold can survive on surfaces for months.

To stop the spread of germs, clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched at home, school, or work. Focus on areas such as countertops, doorknobs, tables, refrigerators, and faucets. Don’t overlook laptops, phones, remote controls, and computers.

Use a can of Lysol or other disinfecting spray or use disinfecting wipes. A quarter cup of bleach mixed in one gallon of water also works as a disinfectant.

Personalize Your Asthma Action Plan

Create and stick to a winter asthma action plan with your doctor. This is an organized plan that is used to prevent or reduce flare-ups.

Each plan should include what medicines to take, a list of possible triggers, actual symptoms, and when to seek emergency medical care. If you notice the signs of an asthma attack, alter your medications as instructed in your written asthma action plan. You should always have at least one or two fast-acting medicines on hand.

You should also make it a habit of using a peak flow meter. This device will monitor your asthma. Take readings at the same time every day and record them in a diary. If you observe a decrease in the peak flow, alter your medications as directed in your written asthma plan.

Use a home salt therapy device like Salin Plus which releases tiny salt particles and filters the air of other particulates, including dust and allergens to help relieve asthma symptoms.

The post Extra Precautions Asthma Sufferers Need to Take During Flu Season appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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6 Natural Remedies to Soothe Bronchitis Symptoms

Bronchitis is a condition in which the bronchioles, or the fine network of tubes within the lungs, become inflamed and full of mucus. For most people, bronchitis typically lasts about ten days.

Using anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen, is a great way to help manage many of the symptoms that accompany bronchitis, particularly swelling and irritation of the bronchioles, pain, fever, and general achiness.

You don’t have to rely on chemical-laden medication or cough syrups to ease the symptoms of bronchitis.

The common symptoms of this condition, such as a sore throat, coughing, fever, and body aches, can be soothed by several different natural remedies.

1. Anti-Inflammatories

You can help improve your body’s natural ability to fight inflammation by supplementing your diet with foods that are naturally high in anti-inflammatory properties, such as ginger, clove, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic, leafy green vegetables, pineapple, and blueberries. Ginger and turmeric are even available in supplement form, although it may be difficult to swallow a pill if you are experiencing significant swelling or dryness of the throat.

2.  Humidifier

Using a humidifier can immediately affect your level of comfort when battling the inevitable dryness and irritation that arises with bronchitis. Depending on the general temperature of your home and the weather outside, you can opt for either a cool or a warm mist humidifier. Adding moisture to the air will help to prevent dryness and irritation in the delicate tissues of your nose and throat. The ideal setup would be to have the humidifier near your bed while you are asleep, but you could also move the humidifier to any room that you frequent throughout the day and still reap the benefits.

3.  Salt Therapy

Salt therapy is relatively new to the home remedy scene. However, the benefits of salt therapy regarding the treatment of respiratory conditions has been known for over 100 years when people discovered that workers in salt caves often were not afflicted by respiratory illness.

Salt therapy spas are cropping up all over the world, and they involve sitting in a room designed to imitate a salt cave. Today’s salt therapy rooms use a machine to crush salt into tiny particles which are then released into the air. If you don’t have a salt therapy spa in your local area, you may want to consider purchasing the home version, called Salin Plus Salt Therapy. This home therapy works like an air filter, filtering out most allergens as it pulls air into the unit and mixing the air with tiny salt particles as it is pushed out of the fan.

4.  Honey, Lemon, and Warm Drinks

After spending hours coughing throughout the day and night, your throat is bound to be very dry and sore. You can ease your discomfort by drinking plenty of fluids to keep the lining of your throat lubricated. Warm drinks, such as your favorite tea, are especially helpful and can be mixed with anti-inflammatory spices such as ginger, clove, or cinnamon.

Lemon or orange could also be added to your diet to boost your immune system and cut through mucus. Try swallowing a spoonful of honey or adding a bit to hot water or tea to help temporarily coat your throat and provide pain relief.

5.  Ginseng

Throughout the ages, ginseng has been used to treat many symptoms and conditions ranging from infertility to low energy. Ginseng is also effective at soothing headaches, reducing inflammation, and improving overall lung functionality by eliminating harmful bacteria within the lung tissue.

Ginseng is available in capsule form, but you may find it difficult to swallow capsules with a sore throat. In this case, ginseng tea would be the ideal method for treating bronchitis symptoms. Adding honey and ginger would really ramp-up the effectiveness of this treatment.

6.  Essential Oils

Essential oils can be a powerful weapon to have in your arsenal against bronchitis symptoms. Peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil seem to have the best impact against bronchitis symptoms. Eucalyptus oil contains high amounts of cineole, which is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Peppermint oil is antimicrobial, which helps to eliminate unnecessary bacteria, but it also generates a cooling sensation which can help to cut through the mucus and allow you to breathe easier. Essential oil can be placed in a diffuser, or you can add a few drops to a humidifier or vaporizer tank.

Final Thoughts

Using natural remedies for bronchitis is a great way to find relief without pumping your body full of medication and ending up zonked-out in bed for day. Everyday life doesn’t pause when we’re feeling poorly, and for many of us, the idea of treating symptoms using natural remedies is appealing because we can still function and complete everyday tasks. As always, consult your doctor before adding something new to your diet/treatment regimen. If you still suffer the symptoms of bronchitis after ten days of treatment, or if the symptoms worsen, it may be necessary to see your doctor to determine if any complications have arisen.

The post 6 Natural Remedies to Soothe Bronchitis Symptoms appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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I Just Received Notice of an Air Quality Advisory in My Area. Now What?

During the blazing days of summer, local television and radio commentators will often announce a local Air Quality Advisory, cautioning people to remain indoors if possible as the air is dangerously polluted.

Do you know what causes an air quality alert, and what it means for you and your family?

An Air Quality Advisory is a warning that air pollution levels are high. Several things contribute to air pollution such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and lead, but the two most significant threats to public health are:

Tropospheric Ozone – Often called ground-level ozone, pollutants such as car mixing with oxygen create this effect. The most dangerous levels occur during the afternoon and early evening on hot summer days. This type of air pollution can trigger asthma attacks decreasing lung function and make it difficult for you to breathe.

Particle Matter – forms year-round and consists of dust, smoke, soot, and ash. It is often caused by burning fossil fuels and is most common on hot, humid days. Limit your time outdoors as the particulate matter in the air can make you cough or feel sick.

The Air Quality Index

There are also different air quality alert codes. The Air Quality Index (AQI) reports daily air quality. The index advises you of how polluted the air is and the health effects that might concern you. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established national air quality standards and calculates the AQI for the air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act.

The EPA uses a color-coded system, assigning a different color to each AQI category. Color-coding makes it easier for the public to visualize when air pollution has reached unhealthy levels, and what the effects might be when you reach a certain color level.

They are:

Green –air pollution poses no risk.

Yellow – air pollution is moderate and may affect those with sensitivities to a particular pollutant.

Orange – the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups such as those living with asthma or the elderly and young children.

Red – is unhealthy for everyone. The general population would experience some health effects, and sensitive groups would suffer severe consequences.

Purple and Maroon – is rare, but also extremely dangerous for the entire population.

So, What Should You Do When an Air Advisory Occurs?

If you hear an air advisory, reduce exposure by staying indoors with the windows tightly shut.

If you do venture outside, limit your time outdoors, and restrict strenuous activities. Keep windows in your car closed to avoid exposure to pollutants. Consider wearing a face mask, especially if you are doing yard work or other activities where you are exposed to additional allergens.

If you have asthma, always keep your rescue inhaler with you and take any preventative medicines prescribed by your physician.

Stay hydrated and breathe properly. Breathe through your nose, because it is the nose’s job to filter the air. You bypass this filtration system when you breathe through your mouth.

Invest in an air purifier. Even indoors, although the air may look clean, it can be saturated with microbes and dust particles. These microscopic air particles enter your lungs and throat, aggravating respiratory issues like asthma and COPD.

Air quality varies around the United States. Ozone, for instance, can pose a significant problem for those living with asthma and is more prevalent in urban areas. Visit airnow.gov, a website developed by federal, state and local agencies to monitor air quality. You can also download their app. The EPA also has a feature on its website called My Environment, which provides you with an air-quality forecast for your zip code.

What Can You Do to Keep the Air Cleaner?

There are lots of things you can to that will help reduce air pollution and keep the air we breathe cleaner, not only on an Air Advisory Day but every day!

Set the thermostat higher in the summer and lower in the winter to conserve energy.

Turn off the car when stopped. Idling a vehicle creates more pollution and uses more gas.

Turn off appliances you aren’t using. Saving energy means power plants will emit less pollution because they don’t have to produce as much electricity.

Plant trees and other vegetation because they keep the air clean through photosynthesis.

Combine errands in one trip, rather than several, so you have fewer cold starts with your vehicle.

Avoid using aerosol cans because they may contain volatile organic compounds which are an air pollutant.

Purchase energy efficient bulbs and appliances by looking for the Energy Star label.

Carpool, walk or bike whenever possible.

Always purchase green whenever possible. Buy environmentally-safe paints and cleaning products.

The post I Just Received Notice of an Air Quality Advisory in My Area. Now What? appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a common medical condition that affects many people. It is a potentially serious sleep condition which causes you to repeatedly stop and start breathing while sleeping.

These pauses can last from seconds to minutes and decrease the amount of oxygen you have in your body. Ultimately, this can have harmful consequences to your body and overall health.

Although there are multiple types of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea is the most common. It is caused by a variety of reasons; however, obesity is a major risk factor.

During sleep, the muscles in our throat relax and cause our airways to collapse. This leads to the pauses in breathing.

Obesity also contributes to obstructive sleep apnea by adding extra weight to the neck. This adds pressure to the airway and can worsen the collapse of the airways.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a chronic condition that can cause other serious medical problems. Because of this, it is important to know how to recognize sleep apnea symptoms and when to seek medical advice.

Snoring A multitude of factors can cause snoring. However, excessively loud and constant snoring can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. When our airways are narrowed in the body, this causes the air to vibrate the soft tissues of the neck as we breathe. This turbulent airflow passing through a narrowed airway and the vibration of the tissues, lead to snoring. In a person with obstructive sleep apnea, our airways are tightened and this leads to the snoring that may be keeping your significant other awake at night. The snoring is also generally worse when sleeping on your back, which causes increased pressure on the neck. If this is the case, there are many snoring aids available and it is important to consult your doctor.

Pauses in snoring and loud gasps Not only is snoring a common sign of obstructive sleep apnea, but pauses in snoring followed by a loud gasp is also a worrisome symptom. These seconds of silence may be a period where your airway collapses from the obstructive sleep apnea and you are not breathing. This causes your oxygen levels to go down and decreases the oxygen, a vital nutrient, in the body. The decreased level of oxygen and pauses in breathing tells your brain you need air. The demand for air then triggers your body to take a deep breath or gasps and wake you up.

Daytime sleepiness Exhaustion and feeling overly tired throughout the day can be a sign of many different things. It can be caused by insomnia, stress, depression, caffeine use, medication use and other causes. One possible cause is obstructive sleep apnea. People who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea are unable to get a successful, restful night’s sleep. The pauses in breathing and gasping for air forces the body to wake up and prevent REM sleep, the deepest sleep needed for a restful sleep.

Inability to concentrate and focus To effectively concentrate and focus, it is important to get proper sleep at night. While asleep, the body is always working to release specific hormones and store memories. Without deep sleep, the mind cannot store memories as effectively and the constant drowsiness can make it difficult to concentrate and focus on specific tasks throughout the day. The change and lack of hormones released at night can also cause changes in mood and overall irritability.

High blood pressure High blood pressure is also a common problem among adults and elderly patients. It can be caused and worsened by a number of reasons. It is crucial to treat high blood pressure or the underlying cause of high blood pressure to reduce your risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. Obstructive sleep apnea causes pauses in breathing, which ultimately causes a decrease in the oxygen in your blood. Oxygen is a vital nutrient required by every organ in your body. When your body senses a lowered oxygen level, the blood vessels respond by getting smaller. This causes your blood pressure to go up and without treatment of the obstructive sleep apnea, blood pressure will remain high.

Dry mouth and sore throat Obstructive sleep apnea generally causes people to breathe through their mouths while they sleep. Normally, we breathe through our nose, which specifically helps humidify the air we breathe. Contrary to this, when we breathe through our mouths at night with obstructive sleep apnea, the air remains dry and this dehydrates the mouth and throat. This can lead to a dry mouth and sore throat when you wake up.

The post Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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AVEOtsd vs. Good Morning Snore Solution

Most stop snoring devices on the market today are mandibular advancement devices (MADs). Although effective snoring mouthpieces, and some can be quite comfortable, they are not for everyone. Whether you have dentures, crowns, caps, or braces that prevent you from wearing an MAD, or you simply can’t get used to having something your mouth all night, it is nice to know you have options. AVEOtsd and Good Morning Snore Solution (GMSS) are prime examples.

Read my AVEOtsd review and Good Morning Snore Solution review for more info on each, but read on here for how they compare to each other (spoiler: I like both, but prefer Good Morning Snore Solution).

GMSS and AVEOtsd are both tongue stabilizing devices (TSDs), so they often get compared to one another. If this type of device has sparked your interest then you are probably wondering which one you should try.

Material – Both devices are made from a medical grade silicone that is really gentle on the gums and lips. GMSS is BPA-free, also. One can only assume AVEOtsd is, as well, but it is not stated on the official website, if it is, or not.

Sizing – AVEOtsd is available in three sizes, but medium is worn by 90 percent of users. Also, AVEOtsd needs to be fitted by a professional and modifications can be made to accommodate a larger frenulum. GMSS is a one-size-fits-all device that comes ready to use right out-of-the-box. No professional fitting process is needed.

Lifespan – Both devices have an average lifespan of 12 months, but there are reports of them lasting twice as long.

Guarantee – AVEOtsd comes with a 6-month warranty on manufacturing defects. GMSS does not have a warranty, but you do get a 30-day return policy, so you have plenty of time to decide if it is for you.

Care – The simplistic design of both TSDs make them a breeze to clean. A denture cleaning solution is ideal. You can also make a solution of toothpaste and water. Mouthwash should never be used on either device.

Comfort – GMSS and AVEOtsd attach to your tongue and sit between your inner lips and outer gums. They are comfortable, but they both have the potential to leave your tongue quite sore, if attached too tight. I put them both to the test and found GMSS to be just a little easier to attach.

Price – These TSDs are priced quite similar. GMSS has a regular MSRP of $99.94, but if you order two the price works out to about $64.97 per device. You will pay between $90 and $140 for AVEOtsd. You may have the expense associated with doctor dentist appointments and follow up visits, as well.

Availability – The biggest difference between AVEOtsd and GMSS is that you can order GMSS online through a secure website. You will need to see your doctor or dentist to have an AVEOtsd prescribed to you.

The post AVEOtsd vs. Good Morning Snore Solution appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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AveoTSD Fitting Guide

Most people unfamiliar with tongue stabilizing devices (TSDs), take one look at AVEOtsd, and can’t imagine how that little snoring mouthpiece is going to attach to their tongue. More importantly, how is supposed to stop snoring? It is not a huge CPAP mask so skepticism is warranted. So, if you are feeling a little skeptical, and maybe even a little nervous, this is a perfectly normal reaction. Honestly, it is not as challenging as you may be thinking. A few practices, and it will become second nature.

Preparation

Prior to using your device, run it under warm water. The combination of heat and water makes the material more pliable and easy to work with. To attach it, you need to make sure that the V-notch is facing down. The “V” fits around the lingual frenulum, which is that fold of mucous membrane that runs from the floor of your mouth to the middle point of the underside of your tongue.

Some users need the “V-notch” modified to provide a little more room for the frenulum. Your dentist or doctor can take care of this modification for you.

Attaching AVEOtsd to Your Tongue

Push your tongue into the opening until you can feel the sides.

Using your thumb and forefinger, squeeze both the lower and upper ends. You should feel suction when you squeeze.

Continue to squeeze using a pumping action. The device will draw your tongue inside. Do this until your AVEOtsd is firmly attached.

Learn more about the AVEOtsd Sizing and Fitting in this Video

Practice Makes Perfect

You may not get the perfect fit the first night you wear it. If it is too loose it will fall off while you are sleeping. This is okay! Just try again the next day. However, do not assume that you need to make it as tight as possible either. Being overly tight will not improve the results, but it will likely leave you with a very sore tongue.

Practice throughout the day, especially before the first time you wear it for a full night. You will get a better idea of how tight your device needs to be, if you put it through a few trial runs.  Check out my AVEOtsd reviews for more information.

The post AveoTSD Fitting Guide appeared first on Snoring HQ.

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Caring for Your AVEOtsd

The simplistic design of AVEOtsd snoring mouthpiece makes it a breeze to clean. The site says it only has to be washed once a week using a denture cleaning solution. However, I recommend washing it daily.

Your mouth is home to a lot of bacteria. Even though this device does not sit inside your mouth, your tongue is still in the bulb, and therefore makes it necessary to clean more often than once a week.

Never use mouthwash for cleaning or storing purposes. If the product you use has alcohol in it the silicone the device is made of can be damaged. Remember to rinse it under hot water prior to use to soften the material and make it easier to attach to your tongue. Make sure your AVEOtsd is dry before storing it.

Is Your Device Discoloring?

The AVEOtsd will discolor if you have GERD. This is because of low pH saliva, as well as the bile that is released from the stomach during a reflux episode that occurs at night. If you don’t know you have GERD, but your mouthpiece discolors this is something you should talk to your doctor about. Acidic saliva indicates poor health and is often associated with cancer.

Also, if your AVEOtsd has a strong odor within a few months, this could be a sign of periodontal disease. It is strongly suggested to make an appointment with your dentist and make routine cleanings a priority.

To learn more about AVEOtsd check out my full AVEOtsd review.

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