While the symptoms that accompany living with a rare disease can vary depending on the condition, one of the more common symptoms reported by people diagnosed with at least one rare disease is sleep disorders. According to the National Sleep Foundation, there are more than 100 different types of sleep disorders [1]. Amongst the 100+ sleep disorders that currently have been identified; insomnia is the most common. Insomnia affects around 10% of adults chronically, and 25% acutely [2], [3].
Insomnia and other sleep disorders can have detrimental effects on physical health, mental well-being, and one’s overall function-ability. For those living with chronic rare diseases, sleep disturbances can impact the body’s ability to heal and contribute to the body’s overall deterioration.
We decided to explore the internet and the rare disease community-based landscape to identify the top ten sleep aids and gadgets for 2023. We have compiled our research into the following list with images and links to Amazon, to help guide you in further exploring each product.
Please note that while these sleep aids, gadgets, and devices may help improve sleep quality, they are not a substitute for medical treatment if you have a sleep disorder. If you are experiencing persistent sleep issues, it is important to speak with your healthcare team about possible treatment options and a therapeutic plan tailored to your specific needs.
Light Therapy Glasses
Light therapy may offer some relief for some people with insomnia and circadian rhythm sleep disorders. Most light therapy devices require people to sit in one location in front of a lightbox. However, this handy gadget allows you to receive light therapy as a wearable, making it easy to incorporate into most daily routines. To learn more about Light Therapy visit: Light Therapy: Can Light Combat Insomnia? | Sleep Foundation.
Price: USD 199.00
According to its Amazon profile, Luminette has had over 120,000 users since 2006 and is certified as a "zero-risk" device according to European Standard IEC62471 on photobiological safety.
Essential Oil Diffusers & Humidifiers
Humidifiers and essential oil diffusers can help improve sleep quality by adding moisture to the air and dispersing essential oils that can help relieve stress and promote relaxation [4]. Humidifying the air regularly can also benefit people struggling with dry skin. If you wake up frequently with dry or cracked skin, then humidifying the air while you sleep can be massively beneficial [5]. Essential oil diffusers work to put essential oils into the air, not just to scent your home, but also because they can encourage different responses in the brain to make you feel either more relaxed, to help you sleep better, to improve concentration, or to wake you up [6].
Price: USD 75.99
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BL8BHVVZ/
According to its Amazon profile, the Fabuletta Cool Mist Humidifier is specifically designed for large rooms, providing coverage of up to 755 ft². Whether it's your bedroom, living room, or office space, humidifiers freshen and moisturize the air, often promoting a healthier and more comfortable environment.
Dry air can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues, leading to congestion, coughing, and dry mouth. The adjustable humidity control and cool mist output of this humidifier claim to be able to help alleviate these symptoms.
Additionally, this humidifier acts as an essential oil diffuser, by allowing you to add your favourite essential oils to the built-in tray. Some of the best essential oils for sleep include lavender, valerian root, roman chamomile, sandalwood, bergamot, ylang-ylang, cedarwood, frankincense, sweet marjoram and jasmine [7], [8], [9].
Ear Plugs
Ear plugs can help with insomnia by blocking out sounds that could otherwise interfere with your sleep quality, such as traffic noise or snoring. According to research, ear plugs can also increase rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is the deepest form of sleep and supports memory consolidation. Ear plugs may also increase melatonin levels, which is a hormone that regulates your sleep cycle [10].
However, ear plugs also have some potential side effects, such as causing earwax buildup, ear infections, or irritation [11]. Therefore, it is important to use them properly and clean them regularly. You may also want to choose earplugs that are comfortable and fit well in your ears. There are different types of ear plugs available, such as wax, silicone, foam, or active noise cancelling [12].
Price: USD 24.95
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MFH1TTJ/
According to its Amazon profile, with a noise reduction rating (SNR) of 27 decibels and an NRR of 14, Loop Quiet Ear Plugs effectively reduce most noise, allowing you to create your own peaceful bubble. Loop Quiet Ear Plugs come in four different sizes (XS/S/M/L), ensuring a perfect fit for everyone. The earplugs are not only reusable but also washable, offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable plugs.
Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets are therapeutic blankets that weigh between 5 and 30 pounds and apply pressure to the body, mimicking the experience of being held or hugged. They may relieve the perception of pain and reduce symptoms of anxiety, which can interfere with sleep quality. They may improve sleep quality by increasing rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is the deepest and most restorative stage of sleep. They may reduce symptoms of depression, which can also affect sleep quality and mood [13]. They may be especially helpful for people with insomnia and psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) [14].
However, weighted blankets also have some potential risks, such as:
They may cause overheating or discomfort for some people, especially those who are sensitive to heat or have claustrophobia.
They may pose a choking or suffocation hazard for young children, elderly people, or people with mobility issues.
They may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as respiratory problems, circulatory problems, or chronic pain.
Therefore, it is important to consult with your doctor before using a weighted blanket for insomnia, and to choose a blanket that is appropriate for your weight, size, and preference. You may also want to try different types of weighted blankets, such as those made of cotton, wool, or synthetic materials.
Price: USD 39.99
According to its Amazon profile, the HYPNOSER Weighted Blanket features a precision computer-programmed sewing method and a unique diamond-sewn design. The smaller diamond pockets help the premium glass beads inside remain evenly distributed over the body.
Sleep Bracelet
A sleep bracelet is a device that claims to help you sleep better by applying pressure to your wrist or emitting natural frequencies that harmonize with your body. The Philip Stein Sleep Bracelet claims to use “Natural Frequency Technology” to counter frequencies from technology like mobile phones, which may cause stress, anxiety and insomnia [15][16].
Price: USD 199.00
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XVRT14G/
According to its Amazon profile, the Philip Stein Sleep Bracelet emits a subtle magnetic field that potentially resonates with and reinforces the body’s own magnetic field. This dynamic intends to restore the body's ability to achieve deep and restful sleep. This bracelet claims to utilize a natural frequency disk embedded within the bracelet, eliminating the need for batteries or external energy sources.
White Noise Machine Sunrise Alarm Clock
White noise can help people sleep by blocking out outside sounds and masking disruptive sounds. Research has found that sleep disturbances caused by noise pollution have health consequences for our biological systems. Both duration and quality of sleep can be impacted by outside noises [17]. White noise can help mask background noises in your sleep environment and promote better sleep quality. You can incorporate white noise into your sleep routine with white noise machines or smartphone apps [18].
A white noise machine sunrise alarm clock is a device that combines two features that may help improve sleep:
A white noise machine that plays sounds that mask unwanted noises and create a relaxing environment for sleep;
A sunrise alarm clock that simulates the natural light of dawn by gradually increasing the brightness of the device before the set alarm time, which is intended to help you wake up more gently and feel more refreshed [19].
Price: USD 47.99
According to its Amazon profile, the Housbay White Noise Machine Sunrise Alarm Clock comes with 26 soothing sounds, from ocean waves, rain, and thunderstorms, masking disruptive noises and promoting peaceful sleep. Mimicking the colour of a real sun, the gradual light stimulation gradually increases in brightness over a customizable duration of 5, 10, 30, or 60 minutes.
Eye Massager
An eye massager is a device that applies gentle pressure, heat, vibration, or air compression to your eyes and temples, which can help relieve eye strain, headaches, dry eyes, and insomnia [20] [21]. An eye massager may also stimulate blood circulation, relax the muscles around the eyes, and reduce puffiness and dark circles [22].
Price: USD 58.99
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BHY48KD9/
According to its Amazon profile, the Carefor eye massager is designed to provide soothing relief and promote relaxation for the skin around your eyes. It also has a built-in heating pad, offering a temperature range of 104 to 107 degrees Fahrenheit (40℃-42℃).
Tone Therapy System
Tone therapy is a type of sound therapy that uses specialized sounds to help listeners quickly relieve stress and anxiety while improving their ability to concentrate and respond less to daily challenges. It is a non-invasive treatment that can be used for various conditions including insomnia [23].
Price: USD 179.00
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072KHM8JS/
According to its Amazon profile, the n.o.w. Tone Therapy System claims to act as a catalyst for awakening where users can experience a deep sense of connection to the present moment and explore their inner awareness, by engaging with the harmonious tone sequences. This system claims to encourage users to dedicate just 3 minutes, twice a day, to pause, listen, and cultivate a state of inner calm and acceptance.
Essential Oil Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy cannot cure insomnia or its root cause, but using calming and relaxing essential oils before your intended bedtime can potentially help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep until your intended wake-up time [24]. Essential oils such as lavender, Roman chamomile, and neroli have been found to help ease anxiety and improve sleep for intensive care patients [25].
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils for sleep and relaxation. It is reported to have a calming effect on the body and mind and can help reduce anxiety and stress levels [26]. Valerian root is another popular essential oil that may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality [27]. Roman chamomile is also known for its calming properties and may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Sandalwood is another essential oil that may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Bergamot is known for its mood-boosting properties and may help reduce stress levels. Ylang-ylang is another essential oil that may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Cedarwood is known for its calming properties and may help reduce anxiety levels. Frankincense is another essential oil that may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Sweet marjoram has a calming effect on the body and mind and may help reduce anxiety levels. Jasmine is known for its mood-boosting properties and may help reduce stress levels.
Price: USD 12.95
According to its Amazon profile, Dream’s essential oil claims to be free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, offering a gentle and non-invasive method to support sleep.
Pillow with Adjustable Support Cushion
Pillows help to keep the upper body in alignment during sleep, relieving pressure and counterbalancing the points in the body. The ideal pillow adjusts to fit one’s unique shape, curves, and sleeping position and alleviate any pressure points [28]. There are many types of pillows that claim to help with insomnia. For example, Coop Home Goods offers an adjustable body pillow that the company claims adjusts to every person and all sleeping positions. It claims to be ideal for side sleepers and individuals with back pain. By removing or adding the filling, a person can also change the size and firmness of the pillow [29].
Price: USD 79.00
According to its Amazon profile, it offers memory foam with ideal firmness and a removable, machine washable soft cover. If you need a wedge pillow for sleeping upright the Flexicomfort wedge pillow is an ideal option.
Conclusion
The causes of insomnia are multifaceted and can vary from stress and anxiety to medical conditions and lifestyle factors. Regardless of the underlying causes, the consequences are far-reaching. Insomniacs often experience daytime fatigue, decreased concentration, mood disturbances, and an overall reduced quality of life.
As the prevalence of insomnia continues to rise, there is a growing need for effective solutions that can address this pervasive issue. While traditional remedies like medication, relaxation techniques, and cognitive-behavioural therapy have long been utilized, technological advancements have introduced a new wave of alternative remedies.
Technology, often blamed for disrupting sleep patterns, is now stepping up to offer solutions. Innovative gadgets and devices have emerged as potential allies in the quest for better sleep. These sleep-enhancing technologies leverage scientific research and cutting-edge features to address the underlying causes of insomnia.
From wearable devices that track sleep patterns to smart lighting systems that create optimal sleep environments, technology is revolutionizing the way we approach sleep. These gadgets aim to regulate circadian rhythms, reduce exposure to blue light, provide relaxation techniques, and promote a more restful and rejuvenating sleep experience.
In particular, the use of light therapy, noise-cancelling devices, aromatherapy diffusers, and weighted blankets has gained traction as effective and accessible options for individuals seeking relief from insomnia symptoms. These technological advancements not only provide convenience and personalization but also offer promising results in improving sleep quality and overall well-being. Please note that the items highlighted in this article are not to be taken as any form of clinical or medical recommendation. Individual experiences may vary, and it is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals or sleep specialists for personalized advice.
References
https://www.lovingessentialoils.com/blogs/diffuser-recipes/do-essential-oil-diffusers-humidify
https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/lifestyle/article/essential-oils-for-sleep
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/best-essential-oils-for-sleep
https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/do-weighted-blankets-work
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200923124740.htm
https://philipstein.com/blogs/philip-stein/what-is-a-sleep-bracelet
https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/why-white-noise-may-help-you-get-your-best-sleep-ever
https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/smart-home/best-sunrise-alarm-clock/
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/massaging-dark-circles-under-eyes
https://www.eyewear-accessories.co.uk/blogs/dry-eye-blog/eye-massager-helps-to-relieve-insomnia
https://www.aromaweb.com/articles/essential-oils-sleep-insomnia.php
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/best-essential-oils-for-sleep
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/essential-oils-for-sleep
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/best-essential-oils-for-sleep
https://www.spine-health.com/wellness/sleep/pillow-support-and-comfort
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