Are weighted blankets safe?

How Do They Work?

Weighted blankets are used to help people with health problems such as anxiety and insomnia. They are also used by people suffering from post traumatic stress disorders and people who have been abused. They are a form of sensory therapy and these blankets are weighted with beans, sand or other materials.

Weighted blankets are designed with a specific purpose in mind – to help people sleep better by reducing anxiety and stress levels. By adding weight to the blanket, it creates a hugging sensation that can help people feel more relaxed and calm. It is like when you hug yourself. They may also help release serotonin, oxytocin, and other chemicals that can improve mood and sleep. Weighted blankets benefits also may be helpful for people with autism or ADHD who are overstimulated by noise around them.

Do Weighted blankets have benefits?

It is important to note that currently there is no solid scientific proof that weighted blankets treat health or sleep problems. The theory behind weighted blankets is that they provide deep pressure touch stimulation, which can be calming and relaxing. While more research is needed, one study found that college students who slept under weighted blankets for one semester had lower anxiety and better-quality sleep. But kids who slept with the blankets didn’t fall asleep faster, sleep longer, or wake up less often.

5 Kids ages 5 to 16 with both autism and severe sleep problems slept under a weighted blanket, neither their quality of sleep nor behavior improved

Who should not use a weighted blanket?

Infants, toddlers, and very young children should not use a weighted blanket because the pellets or glass beads can fall out and become a choking hazard. The heavy blanket could also cover a child’s face while they sleep. If you have sleep apnea, breathing problems, or any chronic health condition, check with your doctor before you use a weighted blanket.

Are there risks when using a weighted blanket?

There are benefits and risks associated with using a weighted blanket, though they are typically minor. Conditions that might make it slightly risky to use a weighted blanket include: being unable to handle the extra weight, not being designed for comfort and safety.

It is important to always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a weighted blanket and to follow any safety precautions. Weighted blankets are not recommended for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

According to a recent neurology study, people who slept less were more likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer’s disease than those who slept seven to eight hours a night.

Can a 2 year old suffocate with a blanket?

Before using a weighted blanket for children, it is important to understand that they are not recommended for infants less than 2 years old. The American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) restricts the use of heavy blankets, cushions, soft toys, or other such products around babies while they sleep or nap.

Weighted blankets and vests provide proprioceptive input to the body’s central nervous system (CNS). While weighted blankets can be used under doctor’s approval with caution, infants should only be used with close supervision.

Are there side effects to weighted blankets?

Some people have reported experiencing side effects from using weighted blankets, such as feeling trapped or being unable to move, feeling hot or sweaty, and feeling anxious. It is important to be aware of these potential side effects before using a weighted blanket.

People with respiratory problems should avoid wearing weighted blankets altogether. Suffocation is a very real danger with weighted blankets, especially if they cover the entire body.

Sleeping with a weighted blanket over the head can be dangerous as it restricts breathing and increases the risk of suffocation.

Those with sleep apnea should be aware that wearing a weighted blanket may make their condition worse.

Lastly, weighted blankets can slow reflexes, so it’s important to use caution when getting up or moving around while wearing one.

Using weighted blankets: Precautions and safety

Weighted blankets have been invented and developed to reduce stress. They work on the principles of Deep Touch Pressure for creating a sense of calm. Weighted blankets are considered safe also for elderly patients and young children when used under the supervision of a trained physician or therapist. Anyone who feels uncomfortable when wrapped under a weighted blanket or is unable to manage its weight should avoid using it.

Are weighted blankets safe? The verdict is that they are! While there may be some discrepancies in regards to size, the heaviest weighted blanket is generally safe for humans and can provide therapeutic benefits; however, it is important to note that larger weighted blankets may provide less pressure than smaller ones.

Studies – Research shows that weighted blankets are safe and effective

A group of researchers set out to study the effects of weighted blankets on adults who are admitted to a mental health hospital. The results of the study were preferable and showed efficacy and safety on the therapeutic benefits of weighted blankets for adults.

Recent research has shown that weighted blankets are safe for both children and adults. Additionally, weighted blankets may help to reduce insomnia through increased tactile and proprioceptive inputs. The use of a weighted blanket has been found to result in vital sign metrics remaining unchanged. This means that those who use weighted blankets should not be concerned about their health and well-being when using a weighted blanket.

A recent study from the Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology (University of Gothenburg, Sweden) found that weighted blankets are safe and provide a calming effect for those who use them. The study looked at data from 63% of people who reported a decrease in anxiety after using a weighted blanket. Additionally, 78% of participants preferred the weighted blanket as a modality for calming down.

Anther study titled “Exploring the Safety and Therapeutic Effects of Deep Pressure Stimulation Using a Weighted Blanket” invrestigated safety of weighted blankets by measuring blood pressure, pulse rate, and pulse oximetry, and effectiveness by electrodermal activity (EDA). Results has shown that the use of a weighted blanket is safe as evidenced by the vital sign metrics.

Are weighted blankets good for you?

If you’re a healthy person between the ages of 18–58 and choose a blanket 30 pounds or below, then a weighted blanket is generally going to be safe to use and provides a variety of health benefits such as reducing anxiety supporting sleep.

For the average adult, teenager, and even children, weighted blankets pose no risk whatsoever. They’re simply heavier than a regular blanket.

can a weighted blanket be too heavy? — copyright by coralablanket.com

What Are the Risks of Using a Weighted Blanket?

Although weighted blankets are safe for practically everyone to use, there are a few risks associated with them. For one, they can be too heavy for younger individuals. Secondly, if the blanket is not made well, it could cause fabric wear and tear. Finally, using a weighted blanket for an extended period of time could lead to discomfort or even pain.

When should you not use a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets are not recommended for people with certain conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or asthma because they can be used in ways that could cause injury or death. There is a risk of death from using a weighted blanket if the person is unable to get out of it if they become unconscious.

There are a few cases where a weighted blanket is not advised to use, these conditions include: being unable to manage the extra weight, having a blanket design that is not optimized for comfort and safety, and being allergic to the materials in the blanket.

Can heart patients use weighted blankets?

There is some concern that weighted blankets may not be safe for patients with a failing cardiovascular system. This is because the extra weight of the blanket could cause problems for these patients. Heart patients sometimes are even advised they must not sleep on their stomach because it would cause problems with blood flow to the abdominal area and legs.

If someone has a history of heart problems, it’s important to consult with a doctor before using a weighted blanket. Additionally, if someone feels tightness in the chest or difficulty breathing while using the blanket, they should stop using it immediately and seek medical attention. Blood flow is important for both heart patients and a healthy body.

Sleep Apnea

People with sleep apnea should not use weighted blankets because they can make the condition worse. Weighted blankets can add more pressure to the airway and make it harder to breathe. There are other home remedies for sleep apnea, and an at home sleep study is accurate for diagnosis or you just simply can use your Apple Watch to detect OSA.

Can you use a weighted blanket if you have asthma?

Asthma is a condition where the airway becomes narrowed and swollen, making breathing difficult. A weighted blanket is not recommended for people with asthma because it can trigger coughing and shortness of breath.

Claustrophobia

Claustrophobic people could feel uncomfortable when a heavy blanket is used during sleep. Weighted blankets can be a potential trigger for those with claustrophobia it is recommended to consult a doctor or therapist before using a weighted blanket with claustrophobia.

Can a weighted blanket hurt you?

Weighted blankets are seen as a way to provide deep pressure stimulation, which is generally seen as a calming tool. However, there is not a lot of concrete research on the safety and efficacy of weighted blankets. A study found that three out of four children tested asked to wear the vest outside of study time. Additionally, 40 percent of the effect was attributed to placebo effects. For kids, it is important to proceed with caution and speak with a doctor before using a weighted blanket.

There are also many deep pressure activities to help relax by providing input to the proprioceptive and sensory systems.

It is important to make sure the weighted blanket is not too heavy for the person wearing it, and toddlers under 3 years old shouldn’t use them. It is important to make sure that the blanket is not too heavy, as it can cause discomfort and even injury. The general rule of thumb is that a weighted blanket should be maimum 10% of the weight of the person wearing it.

Use the Corala Weighted Blanket Calculator is an online interactive tool developed to help you find the ideal weight of a weighted blanket.

Are weighted blankets safe for high blood pressure?

Although there is not much research on the use of weighted blankets for people with high blood pressure, the limited evidence that does exist suggests that they are safe. In fact, many people find that weighted blankets help to reduce their physiological symptoms of stress, including high blood pressure and rapid pulse rates.

While research is still ongoing, there have been some studies that suggest weighted blankets may help people feel less stressed. One study found that participants felt less stressed with weighted blankets than without them. However, it is important to consult a doctor before using a weighted blanket if you have high blood pressure or any other health concerns.

How Can Using a Weighted Blanket Impact My Overall Sleep Health?

Using a weighted blanket can significantly improve overall sleep health by addressing various understanding sleep dimensions. The gentle pressure of the blanket can alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation, leading to deeper and more restful sleep. It can also help regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, resulting in better overall sleep quality.

Sources

Harvard Medical School: “Anxiety and stress weighing heavily at night? A new blanket might help.”

Penn Medicine: “More Than Just a Fad: 4 Ways Weighted Blankets Can Actually Help You.”

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare: “Weighted Blankets Bring Calm and Comfort.”

Oxford Health/National Health Service: “Guidance on the Use of Weighted and Compressing Products.”

National Sleep Foundation: “Will a Weighted Blanket Help You Sleep Better?”

Illinois Wesleyan University School of Nursing: “Effects of Weighted Blankets on College Students’ Anxiety.”

Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering: “Physiological Effects of Deep Touch Pressure on Anxiety Alleviation: The Weighted Blanket Approach.”

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lezt

Lez Taylor, Founder and CEO of Corala Blanket.
She tried every sleep system and trick to conquer her insomnia for good.