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How to stop moaning when falling asleep?

Published in Sleep Disorders Treatment 2 mins read

If you experience moaning or groaning while falling asleep, it's often a sign of a sleep disorder called catathrenia, which can be effectively managed with specific treatments.

Understanding Sleep Moaning (Catathrenia)

Catathrenia is a rare sleep disorder characterized by deep, prolonged groaning or moaning sounds, typically occurring during exhalation, often in REM sleep. Unlike snoring, which is usually loud and happens during inhalation, catathrenia is a distinct phenomenon that can be quite disruptive.

Effective Strategies to Address Sleep Moaning

Addressing sleep moaning primarily involves medical intervention for the individual experiencing it, along with strategies to mitigate its impact on sleep partners.

Medical Interventions

The most effective and research-backed treatment for catathrenia involves specialized medical devices.

  • CPAP Machines:
    • How They Work: CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines are a proven treatment for catathrenia. They function by delivering a continuous stream of mild air pressure through a mask worn over your nose or mouth while you sleep. This gentle pressure works to keep your breathing airways open.
    • Effectiveness: Research has found that CPAP machines significantly help treat catathrenia. While these machines are typically used to treat sleep-related breathing disorders like obstructive sleep apnea, their mechanism of keeping airways open is also highly beneficial for managing catathrenia by preventing the groaning sounds.
    • Consultation: It's crucial to consult a sleep specialist or doctor for a proper diagnosis of catathrenia. They can recommend whether a CPAP machine is the appropriate treatment for your specific situation and help you get fitted correctly.

Managing Impact on Sleep Partners

While you work on addressing the moaning itself through medical treatments, there are practical steps to minimize its disturbance for anyone sharing your bed:

  • Earplugs: Encourage your bed partners to wear earplugs to effectively block out the noises. This can significantly improve their sleep quality until the underlying issue is resolved.
  • White Noise Machine: Using a white noise machine can help mask the sound of moaning. The consistent, calming sound can help create a more peaceful sleep environment and drown out disruptive noises.

By understanding that sleep moaning is often a treatable condition like catathrenia and exploring solutions such as CPAP machines, you can work towards achieving quieter, more restful sleep for everyone involved.