Aug18

conching out.

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can blowing a conch shell help alleviate sleep apnea? science says possibly.

Sleep aids come in all shapes and sizes — from gummies and pills to masks and machines. Now, researchers are eyeing a surprising new technique to help the millions living with sleep apnea worldwide: blowing into a conch shell.
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In a recent study of 30 adults with moderate obstructive sleep apnea, about half of participants were taught to blow a conch shell (also known as shankh blowing in Hindu cultures), while the rest practiced deep breathing exercises. Six months later, those who practiced conch blowing were 34% less sleepy during the day and had an average of 4-5 fewer apnea events per hour during sleep. This group’s blood oxygen levels during the night also improved, which is notable as obstructive sleep apnea is typically associated with decreased blood oxygen levels due to repeated breathing interruptions.
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While more research is needed, the surprising treatment could be a promising alternative for those who are unable to access CPAP machines or find them uncomfortable. Lead researcher Krishna K. Sharma said in a statement, “Shankh blowing is a simple, low-cost breathing technique that could help improve sleep and reduce symptoms without the need for machines or medication.”

*one personal note: a possible downside- your conch-shell noisemaking may cause everyone else in the house to stay awake much longer

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“natives of the florida keys often refer to themselves as Conchs,

and for good reason: they have been drinking.”

-dave barry, ‘best state ever: a florida man defends his homeland’

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source credits: tobi thomas, the guardian, photot: alex pena andalou agency

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67 responses »

  4. Almost 70 years ago I had an asthma attack. My parents took me to the doctor and he told me to take up playing a wind instrument. I wanted a saxophone, but it was too heavy for me to carry. So I got a clarinet and the asthma cleared up. Later when I was older, I finally got the sax.

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  9. I’m glad you pointed out the potential downsides, Beth! 😂 This is fascinating to me and I have to wonder how someone even stumbled upon such a thought to test it out to begin with!

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  18. That’s an interesting and often healthier way than many of the over-the-counter and prescription products on the market. I gave up sleep aids a few years back when my doctor told me about the connections to dementia.

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  20. Yeah, more research is needed. Dave Barry seems to be on the right track. I have been trying out the condiment cure. First you gulp down 12 packets of ketchup. You smear Bonesucking mustard up your nose, and lather your feet with mayonnaise. No one has complained about my sleep apnea since I started that treatment.

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  21. that was a new one to me too – i just wouldn’t have enough air to blow in such a large conch! and i was thinking ‘what about the eerie noise one makes blowing the conch’ – swiftly followed by your remark on the same tone! (ha, no pun intended but we take it).

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