A small study from researchers in Newcastle (United Kingdom) suggests that a new mattress may reduce snoring and sleep apnea. Hunter Medical Research Institute director and neuroscientist Michael Nilsson teamed up with a Swedish medical team to design the new bed.
According to ABC.net, the mattress is layered with foam and angles inwards near the head to stop rolling, and includes a T-shaped pillow that supports the neck and forehead. Professor Nilsson said the aim is to prevent people from sleeping on their back and promote belly sleeping.
“Poor sleeping patterns, along with other factors, can increase the risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease, dementia, diabetes and other diseases,” said Nilsson. “From a stroke rehabilitation perspective, the lack of sleep or disturbed sleep in the recovery phase is potentially a very important problem that has been insufficiently researched. We are planning broader trials and will endeavor to have the mattress classified as a medical device for use in acute-care hospital wards.”