Untreated sleep apnea can cause a bunch of unpleasant symptoms, including loud snoring, daytime grogginess, and fatigue.
What’s more, the lack of air while sleeping limits oxygen to the brain, which can potentially lead to serious complications.
While swapping your mattress won’t cure sleep apnea, it can help alleviate symptoms and improve your sleep quality. Read on for our top mattress picks.
The prices on our list are based on queen-size mattresses. Some beds are compatible with an adjustable base. These come at an additional cost, which isn’t reflected in the pricing below.
The best sleeping position for people with sleep apnea is different for every individual. There is
It’s important to find the sleeping style that works for you, so our list includes several models made for side and stomach sleepers.
If you do sleep on your back,
Here’s what else we considered:
- Great company policies. We looked for aspects, like extended in-home sleep trials, warranties of at least 10 years, and convenient shipping and return policies.
- Solid company reputation. Companies featured below have a positive reputation and transparent business practices.
- Customer reviews. Every mattress we included gets top marks from reviewers.
- Safety. Every mattress on our list complies with federal flammability standards.
Here’s an overview of common mattress types and whether they’re a good choice for people with sleep apnea.
Adjustable airbeds
Not to be confused with air mattresses, these mattresses have built-in air channels that allow you to control the firmness level. You use a remote to inflate or deflate the bed.
Because you can adjust the firmness of an airbed, you can select the right amount of support for side sleeping that keeps your spine aligned.
Some mattresses can also be paired with adjustable bases, which allow you to elevate the head of the bed, potentially limiting obstructive sleep apnea symptoms.
Foam
Foam mattresses can be made of several different types of foam, including memory foam and latex.
Foam mattresses can’t cure sleep apnea — and it’s best to avoid any mattress companies that make these claims — but they may help you sleep more comfortably on your side or stomach.
Keep in mind, though, that some people compare sleeping on a foam mattress to sinking in quicksand. Memory foam tends to feel most restrictive, but gel and other types of foam allow for greater freedom of movement.
Hybrid
These mattresses contain a mix of soft foam and supportive coils. Like quality foam mattresses, hybrid models provide plenty of support, helping you stay comfortable throughout the night. Because they contain coils and have a bit more bounce than foam, hybrid mattresses don’t isolate movement as well.
When shopping for a mattress for sleep apnea, here’s what to consider:
In-home sleep trial
It can be hard to find a mattress that fits your specific need, especially if you have sleep apnea. Trying out a mattress before committing to it is a must when it comes to purchasing online.
Look for mattresses that come with generous in-home trials. Be sure you understand what the return process entails before making your purchase.
Consider reaching out to your doctor to discuss how to determine if the mattress is working for you.
If you wear equipment to sleep, make sure to wear it while testing your new mattress. You can also request an in-home sleep study in your new bed if you don’t currently use sleep apnea equipment.
Adjustable base
An adjustable base can be very helpful, especially if you sleep on your back. The base allows you to raise your head without relying on an uncomfortable stack of pillows.
But adjustable bases can also be pricey. You’ll likely save some money if you opt for a mattress and base bundle from the same company.
If you sleep with a partner, consider a split king mattress or dual-chamber bed so that you can independently adjust each side of the bed.
Carefully read the return policy. Adjustable bases don’t always fall under the same returns policy as mattresses.
Firmness level
If you have sleep apnea, sleeping on your back isn’t ideal. But if you do, opt for a firmer surface.
Stomach and side sleeping work best with different firmness levels. A harder surface is better for sleeping on your stomach. If you sleep on your side, you may be more comfortable with a mattress that has a bit of give for pressure relief.
A mattress or special pillow alone can’t treat sleep apnea.
Airway obstruction isn’t always the root cause of sleep apnea, so it’s best to talk with your doctor if you suspect your sleep is being hindered by bouts of breathlessness.
Leaving sleep apnea untreated can be dangerous, as it can increase your risk of other health conditions.
A doctor will likely recommend several options for treatment, such as:
- quitting smoking (if you currently smoke)
- a CPAP machine to help you breathe at night
- a mouthpiece to help prevent your tongue or jaw from moving in a way that blocks your airway
- facial and mouth therapy
- surgical implants
- other surgical procedures, like removing your tonsils
Ultimately, firmness is a personal preference. Choosing a mattress that comes with a trial period can help you ensure it’s the right feel for you before living with it long term.
Your bed could potentially affect your sleep apnea symptoms, but it’s not the only factor. Consult your doctor to better understand the factors that could be making your symptoms worse.
Sleeping on your side or stomach is great for minimizing sleep apnea symptoms.
A mattress topper is designed to adjust the feel of a mattress. A plush topper, for example, may soften a too-hard mattress. Whatever topper makes your bed most comfortable for sleeping on your side or stomach is a good pick.
Swapping out your old mattress for a new one can help improve your sleep, regardless of whether you have sleep apnea or not.
By elevating your head or changing your sleeping position, you may be able to reduce some symptoms of sleep apnea.
That said, it’s important to talk with your doctor if you consistently feel unrested and groggy after getting a substantial amount of shut-eye. Even the most advanced mattress or pillow can’t cure sleep apnea.
A doctor can help you find out the source of your sleeping troubles and recommend the next steps.
Steph Coelho is a freelance writer with chronic migraine who has a particular interest in health and wellness. When she’s not click-clacking away on her keyboard, she’s probably nose-deep in a good book.
