Sleep Apnea/Snoring

What is Snoring?

Snoring results from the obstruction of the air passages during sleep. When asleep, throat muscles relax, leading to the backward displacement of the tongue. This relaxation narrows and softens the throat, causing it to become more collapsible. When you breathe, these changes create vibrations within the throat’s walls, producing the characteristic loud and unpleasant snoring sound. These vibrations are more pronounced during inhalation but can also occur, to a lesser extent, during exhalation.

In some cases, the throat walls can collapse entirely, completely obstructing the airways, a condition known as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can be a serious health concern, leading to moments of halted breathing during sleep. Severe cases of sleep apnea require immediate medical attention.

DID YOU KNOW?

Approximately 40% of men and

24% of women snore on a regular basis

AND

Louder snorers are more likely to suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

How Can I Stop Snoring?

For a comprehensive evaluation of your snoring, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a sleep specialist. However, if your snoring is sporadic, mild, and doesn’t disrupt your daily life or leave you feeling tired upon waking, you can consider trying these self-help methods:

• Refrain from using tranquilizers, antihistamines, or sleeping pills before bedtime.
• Work on achieving a healthy weight.
• Establish consistent sleep routines.
• Avoid alcohol consumption at least four hours before bedtime.
• Refrain from eating for three hours prior to going to sleep.
• Try sleeping on your side rather than your back.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

If you snore and experience any of the following indicators, it’s advisable to consult a sleep specialist:

• Morning headaches
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Recent weight gain
• Confusion upon awakening during the night
• Morning fatigue despite adequate sleep duration
• Altered levels of concentration, attention, or memory
• Instances of breathing pauses while you sleep (which may be more noticeable to your partner)

And here’s how to do it as an ordered list:

html
Copy code

1. Morning headaches
2. Excessive daytime sleepiness
3. Recent weight gain
4. Confusion upon awakening during

   If your physician determines that your snoring is not indicative of a more severe issue, they may recommend an oral appliance. This device can effectively reduce your snoring and enhance the quality of your partner’s sleep.

   Causes of Snoring

   Snoring occurs when the airway leading to your mouth and nose becomes obstructed. Several factors can impede airflow, including:

   • Blocked nasal airways: Some individuals only snore during allergy seasons or when dealing with a sinus infection. Conditions like nasal polyps or a deviated septum (when the nasal wall is misaligned) can also lead to airway blockages.
   • Weak throat and tongue muscles: Overly relaxed throat and tongue muscles may collapse into the airway, causing snoring.
   • Bulky throat tissue: Excess weight can contribute to bulky throat tissue. In some cases, children may snore due to enlarged tonsils and adenoids.
   • Elongated uvula or soft palate: Having a long soft palate or uvula (the hanging tissue at the back of your mouth) can narrow the space between your nose and throat. This can result in vibrations and collisions between these tissues during breathing, obstructing the airway.
   • Substance use: The consumption of alcohol or muscle relaxants can excessively relax tongue and throat muscles, leading to snoring.
   • Sleeping position: Snoring is often associated with sleeping on your back. Using an excessively soft or large pillow can also contribute to the issue.
   • Sleep deprivation: Insufficient sleep can cause your throat muscles to relax excessively, leading to snoring.

   Diagnoses and Treatments for Snoring

   The individual who brings your snoring to your attention is often your partner, and your doctor will inquire about symptoms from both of you.

   To investigate potential airway obstructions, such as chronic nasal congestion from conditions like rhinitis or sinusitis, a deviated septum, or enlarged tonsils, your doctor will also delve into your medical history and conduct a physical examination.

   There are several approaches to address snoring:

   • Lifestyle adjustments: Your doctor may recommend reducing alcohol intake before bedtime, quitting smoking, or achieving weight loss.
   • Surgical options: Various surgical techniques can be employed to address snoring, including the removal or reduction of throat tissues.
   • CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): This device is designed to manage sleep apnea and can also help reduce snoring by delivering air pressure into your airways while you sleep.
   • Oral appliances: You can wear a small plastic device in your mouth while sleeping, which helps keep your airways open by positioning your mouth or tongue.