Sleep sound therapy machines are designed to lull patients to sleep with calming white noise, rolling wave or forest noises or other soothing sounds. The machines can block out other ambient sound that disrupts sleep. Researchers at Consumer Reports found that sleep sound machines can help patients fall asleep longer and experience fewer sleep interruptions.
Options
Most sound therapy machines come with a variety of settings so patients can choose which sounds work best. While a waterfall or chirping birds might be restful for some, others find those noises distracting and sleep better with white noise such as a fan, heartbeat or whirling sound. Volume controls help patients find a suitable sound level.
Benefits
The need for sound to sleep varies among individuals, as does the choice of sound. For those with anxiety, a steady drumbeat meant to induce a hypnotic state might be most appropriate. Rain sound can block out traffic noises or household sounds such as the hum of a refrigerator or creaking floors. Ocean waves might allow a sleep-deprived person to remember a relaxing vacation and induce calm necessary for sleep. Doctors at the National Sleep Foundation report that nearly half of all insomnia is caused by stress, which often can be overcome with the right kind of sound therapy.
Hardware
Most sound machines are started when the person goes to bed and remain on all night. Some machines come with timers. The units typically are small and unobtrusive and run on electricity. Many units run on batteries. They are designed to fit in with many bedroom decors and placed on a dresser or nightstand.
Features
While some machines are stand-alone units similar to small radios, other forms of sleep sound therapy machines are on the market. Researchers at Stanford University report that sound machine units can be purchased that are built into ergonomically correct pillows that also can help with sleeping by supporting the head and the neck properly. Tapes and CDs are available that can deliver the sleep-inducing sounds of a sleep therapy machine. Researchers even found a headband that applies gentle acupressure on the temples while sending soothing sound through earplugs.
Warning
Researchers at the National Sleep Foundation advise people who suffer from insomnia to take advantage of sleep machines if unwanted noise disrupts sleep. After determining that no serious medical condition is causing insomnia, a calm sleep environment is essential for most people to get a good night's sleep. Inadequate sleep can lead to a number of problems including depression, fatigue and illness.
